Transforming Perspectives, Empowering Change
Gender and Sexuality Studies (G&SS) is an academic unit at New Mexico State University (NMSU) that plays a vital role in advancing education, research, and social awareness regarding gender and sexuality issues through feminist, queer, transgender, and LGBTQIA knowledges. Gender and Sexuality Studies is consistent with the land-grant mission of NMSU and that of the College of Arts and Sciences. Grounded in a commitment to inter- and transdisciplinary inquiry, G&SS has a comprehensive educational mission that encompasses teaching, scholarship, extension and outreach, and service. The educational goal of G&SS at NMSU is promote inclusivity, critical thinking and the production of new knowledges, transformative approaches, and social justice.
Pedagogy and Education:
At the core of the G&SS program is its dedication to delivering high-quality education to undergraduate and graduate students. The program offers a range of courses that explore theoretical perspectives, research methodologies, and critical analysis related to gender and sexuality. By fostering an inclusive and supportive academic environment, G&SS encourages students to critically engage with complex questions and diverse perspectives. Through experiential learning activities, students gain practical skills and engage in creative forms of expression, promoting a deeper understanding of gender and sexuality issues in various social, cultural, political, and historical contexts.
Scholarship and Creative Activity:
The G&SS program is committed to advancing knowledge through scholarship and creative activity. Faculty members engage in research, creative activity, and intellectual inquiry, contributing to the field of gender and sexuality studies. Their work often involves interdisciplinary collaborations and addresses pressing social issues, such as gender inequality, LGBTQ+ rights, intersectionality, and the politics of sexuality and gender. By disseminating their findings through publications, presentations, and creative works, G&SS faculty members contribute to the academic community and make their knowledge relevant to diverse audiences, both within and beyond the university.
Extension and Outreach:
The G&SS program recognizes the importance of making its knowledge and expertise accessible and relevant to communities beyond the university. Through extension and outreach efforts, the program aims to bridge the gap between academia and society. G&SS seeks to make its knowledge and expertise accessible and meaningful beyond the university. This involves sharing knowledge and skills with communities across the state, region and globally, bridging the gap between academia and the broader society. Faculty members and students engage with local and regional communities, sharing their expertise and collaborating on projects that address gender and sexuality-related challenges. By organizing workshops, symposia, producing a zine publication, a university-based US & transnational digital media and film festival, and other public events, G&SS fosters dialogue and understanding, challenging stereotypes and promoting social change.
Service:
Faculty members actively participate in activities that support the program, college, university, and the broader community. This includes serving on committees, mentoring students, and collaborating with organizations, departments, institutions, and advocacy groups. G&SS recognizes its special commitment to the people of New Mexico, striving to address the specific needs and challenges faced by the state's diverse populations and their histories.
The educational mission of the G&SS academic unit at New Mexico State University is integral to promoting inclusivity, critical thinking, and social justice. By providing high-quality education, engaging in scholarly research and creative activities, extending knowledge to the wider community, and actively participating in service, G&SS creates an environment where students, faculty, and the community can explore, challenge, and transform gender and sexuality-related issues. Through its multifaceted approach, the G&SS program at NMSU contributes to the broader mission of the university and empowers individuals to become agents of change in a world where gender and sexuality equality and equity are paramount.
