Vicki Ruiz

Dr. Vicki Ruiz became a noted historian for her works examining the lives of working class women. Her work gives voice to a previously racialized group of women, and allows readers to understand their trials as well as triumphs. In addition to her own writings, Dr. Ruiz has edited several works, the most famous being Unequal Sisters: A Multicultural Reader in U.S. Women’s History.

Dr. Ruiz is an activist with ties to the community as well as a first rate scholar. She has been an enthusiastic participant in and fundraiser for ASU’s Hispanic Mother-Daughter Program. She zealously recruits Latina women to stay in high school, get their degrees, and go on to study at ASU.

Her numerous and well-deserved honors, notwithstanding, Dr. Ruiz is distinguished not only by her scholarship but by her spirit. Dr. Ruiz has been a role model for many women, providing many moments out of her busy schedule to mentor undergraduates, graduates and junior faculty.

Dr. Ruiz not only talks about commitment to improving the status of women, she also dedicates tremendous energy and enthusiasm to realizing this goal. Dr. Vicki L. Ruiz should be celebrated for her personal achievements, as well as for her unwavering support of other women.