This work chronicles the lives and legacies of Chicana and Chicano scholars whose formative experiences in the Chicano Movement shaped the development of Chicano studies and transformed higher education. Originating from the Reuniones de Colegas Chicanas—gatherings of veteran scholars reflecting on their shared histories—the volume features sixteen essays organized into five thematic sections that explore the intersections of activism, scholarship, and institutional change.

The contributors document how grassroots organizing evolved into academic inquiry, leading to the creation of departments, student support systems, and policy reforms that advanced equity and representation in universities. Essays address how community-engaged research influenced urban planning, health advocacy, and cultural production, while also highlighting Indigenous and transnational epistemologies that redefined theoretical frameworks in Chicano studies. The volume concludes with reflections on academic leadership and the breaking of barriers by Chicana scholars in higher education administration.

Together, these essays offer a powerful intellectual history and a testament to a generation’s enduring commitment to social justice. How We Came to Be is both a scholarly archive and a call to action, preserving the legacy of those who built Chicano studies and inspiring future generations to continue the work of transformation within and beyond the academy.

Contributors

José Calderón

Gilberto Cárdenas

Teresa Carillo

Teresa Córdova

Estevan Flores

Yvette G. Flores

Felipe Gonzales

Deena Gonzalez

Francisco J. Hernández

Inés Hernández-Ávila

Francisco Hernández Vázquez

Aída Hurtado

Larry Trujillo

Avelardo Valdez

Carlos G. Vélez-Ibáñez

James Diego Vigil

Teresa Córdova is director of the Great Cities Institute at UIC and professor of urban planning and policy. She collaborates with communities and policymakers to translate research into action, shaping equitable urban development policy and community development practice.

Aída Hurtado, UC Santa Barbara professor and Luis Leal Endowed Chair, researches intersectional feminisms, Latino/a/x identity, and media representations. She has authored several influential books, received notable awards, and spoke at the 2017 and 2018 Women’s March.

Francisco J. Hernández, a history of education expert, has served as vice chancellor for students at multiple universities. He advises the UC Chicanx/Latinx Alumni Association and the NROC Project, and he holds various board positions.

Avelardo Valdez, USC emeritus professor and former Fulbright Scholar, researches substance abuse, violence, and health among high-risk minorities. He has been the recipient of NIH grants, has chaired the National Hispanic Science Network Association, and has served on the National Academy of Sciences Committee on Causes and Consequences of Incarceration.