About
Samantha Guajardo, M.A., is a Ph.D. candidate in Communication at the University of Memphis, specializing in Rhetoric and Media Studies. Her research explores the rhetorical strategies Latina leaders use to advance social justice, particularly within grassroots movements along the U.S.-Mexico border. Her dissertation focuses on the rhetoric of Juanita Valdez-Cox, Sr. Norma Pimentel, and Dr. Juliet García, examining how each challenges dominant narratives surrounding labor, immigration, and education. Through this work, Guajardo contributes to ongoing conversations around border rhetoric, social movement discourse, and feminist rhetorical studies.
In addition to her academic scholarship, Guajardo is a communication and writing consultant and public speaking trainer. She works closely with students and scholars to support their writing, argumentation, and public speaking skills, helping them navigate various rhetorical situations. As a graduate instructor, she cultivates inclusive learning spaces grounded in equity and care. Her pedagogical approach affirms the knowledge that students bring into academic and professional contexts, centering voice, agency, and belonging in the learning process.
Education
Ph.D. in Communication (forthcoming) - The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN
M.A. in Communication and certified in Training and Consulting - The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Edinburg, TX
B.A. in Communication Studies and a minor in English - St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, TX
A.A. in English - South Texas College, McAllen, TX
Website
Publications
Guajardo, S. M. (in press). Prophetic Resistance at the U.S.-Mexico Border: Sr. Norma
Pimentel’s Campaign Against Anti-Immigrant Media Narratives. Journal of Communication and Religion.Alston, A. D., & Guajardo, S. M. (in progress). Perfecting your business pitch: Business communication training manual. University of Memphis.
Cook, J. H., & Roberson, S. (Eds.). (in press). Radical transparency: Perspectives on graduate education in writing studies. [Collaborator].
Guajardo, S. M. (2025). A nun honors the sacredness of life at the southern border: Sr. Norma Pimentel’s campaign against stigmatizing immigrant narratives in the media. Journal of Communication and Religion, 47(4). (Accepted for publication).