The establishment of the Center for Mexican American Studies (CMAS) contributes to the St. Mary’s University designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and reflects St. Mary’s commitment to recognize, celebrate and advance the understanding of the historical and contemporary contributions of Mexican American, Latin American and Indigenous communities in San Antonio and South Texas. The center aligns with St. Mary’s mission of social justice, family spirit, peace and education.
Purpose of CMAS
The center’s purpose is to showcase St. Mary’s as a leader in inclusive excellence, in interdisciplinary Mexican American and Latin American studies and as a University that creates a sense of belonging for members of our campus community.
Equipping Our Students With the Skills to Succeed
As a cornerstone institution and regional hub for Mexican American Studies, CMAS prepares students to become transformative leaders, scholars and advocates in their communities and beyond by advancing faculty research and scholarship and strengthening partnerships between St. Mary’s and the broader community.
Through its academic programs and public engagement, CMAS fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, cultivates multicultural understanding, promotes critical inquiry and reinforces the Marianist commitment to faith, service, compassion and social responsibility.
Education for Formation in Faith
The strong role of the Catholic Church in the history, community and culture of Mexican American people provides an opportunity for faith formation through a Mexican American cultural lens. The center supports events related to faith and mission, working collaboratively with the Center for Catholic Studies and the Office of Mission and Rector.
By emphasizing the formation of people in faith and the education of leaders for the common good, CMAS delivers innovative research experiences and programming.
Public Lectures
Its public lectures featuring distinguished speakers place St. Mary’s faculty, students and community members in dialogue with leaders and emerging developments in Mexican American Studies.
Programming is open to the public and extends our scope of influence to members of the West Side of San Antonio and beyond.
Related Programs
Questions? Contact Us.
For more information, contact the director for the Center for of Mexican American Studies.
Jerry Gonzalez
Director of the Center for Mexican American Studies