Avelardo Valdez, M.A. '76, Ph.D. '79

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Avelardo Valdez, M.A. '76, Ph.D. '79, professor emeritus at the University of Southern California, is the author of a new book, "Homeboys Forever: The Lifetime Consequences of Gang Membership," forthcoming from University of Chicago Press this month.

Drawing on more than two decades of longitudinal research, the book follows the lives of Mexican American men in San Antonio as they navigate adolescence, gang involvement and the transition into adulthood. Based on extensive fieldwork and in-depth interviews, it examines how structural inequality, institutional stigmatization and limited opportunities shape life trajectories marked by cycles of violence, incarceration and efforts toward reintegration.

A UCLA sociology alumnus, Valdez’s work reflects a longstanding commitment to understanding inequality, community dynamics and the lived experiences of marginalized populations. His latest book offers a rare, deeply human perspective on the long-term consequences of gang involvement while contributing to broader conversations about social policy and social justice.