Dr. Vasti Torres: Link between identity and learning for Latino Students

Learning environments are more effective when students’ identities are centered within the subject matter.  This session will focus on a model of Latino identity development and how students’ experiences influence their development. 

Dr. Vasti Torres is a professor in the Center for the Study of Higher and Postsecondary Education (CSHPE) and an associate faculty member of Latina/o Studies at University of Michigan. Her research focuses broadly on the success of underrepresented students in higher education. She is known for her work on how the identity development of Latinx students can influence their college experience. She has been the Principle Investigator for several grants including a multi-year grant investigating the choice to stay in college for Latino students as well as a multi-year grant looking at the experiences of working college students. She has worked on several community college initiatives including Achieving the Dream, Rural Community College Initiative, and Building Engagement and Attainment for Minority Students initiative.