PEN + PEOPLE

Dr. Robert Tinajero is an Associate Professor of English and Rhetoric, as well as the Program Coordinator for the English and Writing Program at the University of North Texas at Dallas. With a deep commitment to helping students and educators become better writers and teachers of writing, Dr. Tinajero blends practical skill-building with engaging and culturally aware approaches to foster more nuanced views of language and communication. His goal is to inspire individuals to value the rich diversity within language and cultural expression.

A key contributor to the academic landscape, Dr. Tinajero helped design the Applied English program and the minor in Rhetoric and Writing Studies. His academic background is extensive, holding a Ph.D. in Rhetoric and Writing Studies from UT-El Paso, a Master’s in Creative Writing from the University of Houston, a Master’s in Theological Studies from Southern Methodist University, and a Bachelor’s in English and Religion from Austin College.

Dr. Tinajero’s research interests focus on Hip Hop rhetoric, Critical Race Theory, and the history of composition studies in the U.S. since 1900. His teaching repertoire includes courses that connect writing, rhetoric, and cultural studies, and his scholarship includes numerous academic articles and three published books of poetry.

A native of El Paso, Texas, Dr. Tinajero brings his love for writing, communication, and culture to every endeavor. Outside of academia, he enjoys sports, attending concerts, spending time with his family, and connecting with friends.