UGA’s Maíllo-Pozo Recognized Nationally for Outstanding Teaching in Latin American Studies

Sharina Maíllo-Pozo, Assistant Professor in the Department of Romance Languages, has been awarded the Consortium of Latin American Studies Programs (CLASP) 2025 Faculty Teaching Award. This is a major national and interdisciplinary distinction, given that the competition was open to early-career faculty from over thirty US institutions, with nominees representing the broad constellation of humanities and social sciences found in Latin American Studies programs. The award criteria sought documented excellence in teaching courses designated for Latin American Studies, with evidence of student success and the submission of sample course materials, in addition to demonstrated community engagement and professional service. The award notification also commended Maíllo-Pozo for her strong research agenda. An assistant professor at the time of her nomination and award, Maíllo-Pozo has just been awarded tenure and promotion to the rank of Associate Professor. Her pedagogical style in such course offerings as SPANISH 2550 (Introduction to Latinx Studies), SPANISH 3010 (Spanish Cultural Dialogues), and SPANISH 4030 (Latinx in the United States) engages students in active learning through discussion-based activities, group projects, and interactive conversations with artists, scholars, and community members. 

 

Former students speak to the qualities recognized with this award. As Saili Kudchadkar notes, “Dr. Maíllo-Pozo's teaching methods are exceptional... Her ability to connect with students and convey complex topics such as ethnic and national identity, intergenerational trauma, and the political climate's effects on Latinx youth are remarkable.” According to Phoebe Lyons, Dr. Maíllo-Pozo “encourages her students to think deeply about real-world issues and scenarios, through classroom and small group discussions, as well as individual oral and written reflections.” Alexandra Wells comments that “it’s not uncommon to find students gathered in clumps by the door of Dr. Maillo-Pozo’s classroom. Some linger after class ends, others arrive early before the next starts, but they’re all there for the same reason: Dr. Maillo-Pozo is someone you want to be around. Her dedication to building relationships with her students and establishing a classroom environment that feels safe and energized is the foundation of her success in teaching.”