TAMIU Prof Receives Congressional Recognition for Bilingual Ed Efforts
A Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) faculty member received congressional recognition for advancing bilingual education in South Texas.
Dr. Gilda Y. Martínez, assistant professor of educational programs at TAMIU, was recognized by Congressman Henry Cuellar in ceremonies held Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026, at the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library Colonnade.
The event highlighted Martínez’s efforts to help educators and families understand the value and importance of bilingual education.
"I am deeply humbled and grateful for this extraordinary recognition. Thank you, Congressman Cuellar, for honoring my career and my dedication to bilingual education. By recognizing this work, you are also affirming the importance of bilingualism, the value of our educators, and the potential of every bilingual child in our community,” said Martínez.
She added, “I am proud to serve at Texas A&M International University and in the College of Education. I am grateful for the opportunity to prepare future educators, support bilingual communities, and bring educators together through the Unidos Para Texas Bilingual Education Conference."
During the ceremony, Dr. Alfredo Ramírez, College of Education dean, also offered some remarks on Martinez’s efforts towards
“Through her teaching, scholarship, and leadership of the annual Unidos Para Texas Bilingual Education Conference, Gilda reminds us that bilingual education is not simply about learning another language. It is about creating opportunities, honoring cultural identities, and preparing teachers who recognize the tremendous potential of every child,” said Ramírez.
He reiterated, “What I appreciate about Gilda's work is her ability to bring educators, scholars, and practitioners together to engage in these important conversations, bridge differing perspectives, and keep our attention where it belongs: on the educational opportunities and success of the children of South Texas.”
A native of Laredo, Texas, Martínez earned her doctoral degree in bilingual education from Texas A&M University-Kingsville. She holds two master’s degrees, one in school administration and another in bilingual education, with a minor in special education, as well as a bachelor’s degree in bilingual education from TAMIU.
She began her career at a dual-language campus in Laredo and later served as a district administrator. She is currently an assistant professor of bilingual education and a bilingual education consultant.
Her research focuses on dual language education, teacher preparation, and language acquisition, with the aim of advancing equity and academic success for linguistically and culturally diverse learners.
The Unidos Para Texas Bilingual Education Conference, a yearly bilingual education conference founded by Martínez, celebrated its fifth annual proceedings this past September. The Conference aims to advocate for academic excellence for students globally, improve instructional practices for children, and provide educators with high-quality professional development opportunities to meet learners' needs.
For more information about the Unidos Para Texas Conference, contact Martínez by emailing gilda.martinez@tamiu.edu.
A proud member of The Texas A&M University System, TAMIU provides a world-class educational experience to students from throughout South Texas, Northern Mexico, and beyond.
For more on the University’s story, visit tamiu.edu or follow its social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube and X.
