University of Houston alumnus, historian and professor José Angel Hernández died Monday. He was 55.

Hernández earned his master's in history from the University of Houston in 2000 before earning his doctorate from the University of Chicago in 2008. He joined the UH faculty in 2014 as an associate professor, teaching courses like Philosophies of History and History of Histories, where he challenged students to think more critically.

Hernandez was also a faculty affiliate with the Center for Mexican American and Latino/a Studies, where he had previously served as a graduate fellow and visiting scholar.

Beyond the classroom, Hernández was a passionate mentor, guiding numerous students through senior theses and research projects and serving as an advisor to the Phi Alpha Theta national history honor society on campus.

"Professor Hernández has inspired generations of students," said Catherine Patterson, history department chair. "Through his classes and one-on-one mentorship, he encouraged students to see the many ways that historical events have been interpreted over time and to ask their own big questions about historical change. His passing is a profound loss."

Throughout his life, Hernández earned significant recognition for his scholarship. Born in San Antonio, Texas, to Mexican immigrant parents, he authored two acclaimed books that shed light on the complexities of colonization and the often-overlooked experiences of Mexican American migrants. His work earned the inaugural William M. LeoGrande Prize for the best book on U.S.- Latin American relations in 2012 and South Texas College’s Américo Paredes Book Award in 2013. His latest book, “Colonizing Ourselves," was published in October and details historical back-to-Mexico movements and Mexico’s unique approach to colonization.

Beyond campus, Hernández was a three-time Fulbright U.S. Scholar. He conducted research in Mexico and the Philippines that expanded understanding of Spanish colonization. His commitment to global engagement was also exemplified by his role as a Fulbright Alumni Ambassador, where he shared his experiences and expertise with the broader academic community.

"Dr. Hernández will be remembered for the vigor of his scholarship, his dedication to challenging students, and the indelible mark he left on campus and beyond," said Daniel P. O’Connor, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences.

Hernández's passing is a profound loss for the University of Houston, academia and society. His dedication to his craft, his unwavering support for his students and his tireless efforts to expand our understanding of history will be remembered.