Dr. Jaime Mendez, who is one of our Local Flavor judges this year, serves as Assistant Dean of Students at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), where he oversees student basic needs initiatives, contributes to the university’s Behavioral Intervention Threat Assessment Team, and advises the Student Government Association.
He has been a programming and advisory committee member for the Plaza Classic Film Festival for over 13 years, helping curate the annual 11-day celebration of classic cinema held at the historic Plaza Theatre. Dr. Mendez’s passion for film extends beyond the festival through his involvement in teaching, acting, and production. His love for cinema began in the early 1970s through various Disney films shown at local venues, such as the Pershing Theater and the Cinema Park and Lomaland Drive-Ins.
A proud UTEP alumnus, he earned his Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Administration (2020), M.A. in Theater with a focus on Playwriting (2006), and B.A. in Psychology (1997).
Dr. Jaime Mendez is a member of our Local Flavor judging panel. The Local Flavor Showcase and Awards is at 3:30 pm Sunday, July 26 in the Plaza Theatre, with a free, public reception at 5:30 pm Sunday, July 26 in the Foundation Room, 333 N. Oregon.
