Unidos Para Texas

Dr. Joy Esquierdo

Dr. Joy Esquierdo is the Vice Provost for Bilingual Integration at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley where she advocates for the multidimensionality of bilingualism from early childhood to career. She was previously the Department Chair and Professor in the Department of Bilingual and Literacy Studies. She has over 25 years in the field of bilingual and bicultural education, with twenty years in higher education. Her research includes the quality of education of bilingual students in various areas such as Hispanic serving institutions (HSIs), gifted education, content biliteracy development (English and Spanish), and overall best practices for bilingual students in PK-post secondary education. She has co-authored two books: Teaching Content to Latino Bilingual-Dual Language Learners: Maximizing Their Learning and A Practical Guide for Student Interns: Meeting the Needs of Latino Students and their Communities. She is a proud mother to Andres Joaquin and Rolando Jesus. She is also a certified yoga instructor that enjoys sharing her practice with others.