This spotlight series on scholars in the Latin American and Latina/o/x Studies program celebrates the diverse and remarkable faculty, staff, and students at Illinois State University, highlighting their unique journeys, research, and teaching contributions.
Meet Dr. Marta Ascherio: Bridging Criminology and Latinx Studies
Dr. Marta Ascherio is an assistant professor in Criminal Justice Sciences and joint hire in the Latin American and Latino/a Studies programs. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our university community. Her educational journey took her from Massachusetts to Vermont for her bachelor’s and master’s degrees., then Texas for her Ph.D. and, finally, to Normal as an assistant professor. She is a sociologist by training. She received her Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin.
Family background and early life
Both of Ascherio’s parents are from Italy. They met in the 1980s in Nicaragua, where she was born. A few years later, they had her brother, and then the family moved to Brookline, Massachusetts, which is where she spent her formative years.
Adjusting to life at Illinois State
Since joining Illinois State University, Ascherio has seamlessly integrated into our academic community. Her warm and approachable demeanor, combined with her dedication to her students, have made her a valuable addition to our university. In her short time here, she has already made a significant impact on both Latinx students and those from diverse backgrounds.
Teaching with a sociological imagination
Ascherio’s teaching of philosophy centers on nurturing her students’ sociological imaginations. She believes in helping students connect their personal experiences and family backgrounds with broader historical and political contexts. This approach not only enriches their academic learning but also empowers them to engage with social issues critically.
Exploring criminology and migration
One of Ascherio’s recent research projects, published in Gender & Society, delves into crime reporting to the police. Her work in criminology has far-reaching implications, shedding light on the complexities of reporting crime, especially within marginalized communities. Furthermore, she is currently working on a project examining the impact of arrests on employment and wages among Mexican citizens in Texas.
Joint faculty member in Latin American and Latino/a Studies
Ascherio’s appointment as a joint faculty member within the Latin American and Latino/a Studies programs is a testament to her commitment to Latinx studies. Her enthusiasm for Latinx students is palpable, and her influence extends to students from diverse backgrounds who express their appreciation for the knowledge and insight they gain from her courses.
Advice for students
For students contemplating declaring a minor in Latin American and Latino/a Studies, Ascherio encourages you to embrace the vibrant community. The program provides a space for powerful community-building, transformative dialogue, and the exploration of theory and praxis.
And for those considering graduate school, her advice is simple: Apply! Embrace the opportunity to further your education and become a force for change in higher education.
Beyond academia
When she’s not immersed in her academic pursuits, Dr. Ascherio enjoys hosting dinner parties, taking bike rides, and indulging in fiction. Her love for reading extends to both work-related materials and the books she reads for sheer enjoyment. Currently, she’s engrossed in “Black Flags” by Joby Warwick, a fascinating exploration of complex topics that align with her research interests.
As we continue to shine a light on the outstanding faculty at Illinois State University, we are grateful for scholars like Dr. Marta Ascherio, who contribute to the diverse and dynamic academic environment that defines our institution. Stay tuned for more articles in our “Visionary Scholars in Latin American and Latinx Studies” series as we celebrate excellence and expertise in our community.
