Since 1976, Dr. Celestino Fernández has served as Professor of Sociology at the University of Arizona where he also has served in several administrative positions, including as the University’s first Vice President for Undergraduate Education, Vice President for Academic Outreach and International Affairs, and as the founding Executive Vice President and Provost of Arizona International College.  Currently, Prof. Fernández serves as a University-wide Faculty Fellow, and as Director of Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Sociology.  He teaches courses and conducts research on various topics and issues pertaining culture (including Mexican music and corridos), immigration, ethnic diversity, and education.  Dr. Fernández has published approximately 45 articles and book chapters on these topics.

Prof. Fernández received both the M.A. and Ph.D. in sociology from Stanford University.  During 2000-2001, he served as an American Council on Education (ACE) Fellow at the University of Phoenix.

Dr. Fernández has received wide recognition for his work.  For example, he was honored by the American Association for Higher Education for his “Distinguished Leadership in Higher Education” and by the Governor of Arizona for his commitment to “quality and excellence.”  He also received the “Distinguished Alumni Award” from his undergraduate alma mater, Sonoma State University.  Prof. Fernández has been the subject of three songs and two book chapters.  In 2007, Dr. Fernández was named University Distinguished Outreach Professor in recognition of his “exceptional service to the community, state and nation” (only one of five professors at the University of Arizona with this honorific title).