A forthcoming book by USC Professor George Sanchez will focus on racial interactions in the Boyle Heights neighborhood, an entry point for many ethnic communities coming to Los Angeles during the 20th century.

Sanchez’s many books on race issues within the field of history dovetail into his nomination as president-elect of the American Historical Association (AHA) Pacific Coast Branch for the 2014-15 term. He will serve as president for the 2015-16 term, followed by three years on the organization’s executive committee.

In his new leadership role with AHA-PCB, Sanchez will continue the work that has defined his career: interdisciplinary research in history; promoting the public’s role in history and the innovative ways historians can communicate with the public, such as museum work; and encouraging diversity in the field of history...