MSU Sociology Associate Professor M. Isabel Ayala completes her leadership of Chicano/Latino Studies Program

August 18, 2025

After more than six years at the helm of MSU's Chicano/Latino Studies Program, Dr. M. Isabel Ayala has completed her leadership role. 

Following a sabbatical, Dr. Ayala will return to her research and scholarship on Latinx racialization, higher education and joy. 

She is replaced by interim CLS Dr. Linda Halgunseth, Director MSU Human Development and Family Studies Associate Professor.

"Isabel served as director of CLS since 2019 leading both the undergraduate and graduate programs and advancing curricular and co-curricular programming that centered student growth. During her tenure as director, she championed the importance of Chicano/Latino Studies (CLS) at Michigan State University during a period of heightened scrutiny toward higher education and ethnic studies curricula, contributing to sustained institutional support and awareness. She has also forged and deepened interdisciplinary partnerships across multiple MSU colleges and departments, strengthening the program’s interdisciplinary foundation and long-term sustainability. Isabel was a consistent and unwavering champion for CLS students and faculty and a dedicated academic leader who modeled kindness and generosity while advancing excellence in research, teaching, and service," said Dean Brent Donnallen in making the transition announcement. 

"I am confident Dr. Halgunseth will lead this program effectively until a permanent director is identified. Please join me in welcoming Linda to this role and wishing Dr. Ayala all the best."