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UTSA students learn about Texas politics from former state senator

UTSA students learn about Texas politics from former state senator

(Sept. 12, 2017) - This fall, some UTSA students are learning about political science from a woman who spent more than two decades in Texas politics.

Former State Senator Leticia Van de Putte is teaming up with UTSA political science professor Sharon Navarro to teach a course called Texas Politics and Society.

The course covers topics related to state politics, the Constitution, public policy, elections and federalism. Van de Putte will give five lectures during the semester.

“In political science, it is important to combine the insights of scholars and practitioners and we are excited to have her teach for us,” said Navarro. “Leticia Van de Putte will share her rich understanding of how state government and the legislative process works. She knows first-hand the significance of public service and the impact lawmakers’ decisions have on Texans’ lives.”

Van de Putte was a member of the Texas House of Representatives from 1991 to 1999 and the Texas Senate from 1999 to 2015.

“I had the joy and honor of representing UTSA for 25 years and watched its phenomenal growth. To have the opportunity to teach UTSA students is a way to continue that legacy,” said Van de Putte. “I am excited to work with undergraduate students who are eager to learn about state politics and have the potential to be our future leaders and policy makers.”

The UTSA course is held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4 to 5:15 p.m. in the Main Building on the Main Campus.

Navarro, an expert in women in politics, Latino/a politics and race in American politics, has collaborated with the former state senator in the past. The UTSA professor is the author of “Latina Legislature: Leticia Van de Putte and the Road to Leadership,” a book that was published in 2008.

The UTSA Department of Political Science and Geography offers undergraduate and graduate programs and includes political scientists and geographers who are nationally recognized for their research and teaching.

UTSA is ranked among the top 400 universities in the world and among the top 100 in the nation, according to Times Higher Education.

Kara Soria


Learn more about UTSA Department of Political Science.

Learn more about Sharon Navarro.

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