Professor

Instruction

My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that all people have embodied knowledge and cultural wealth. I make sure that my classroom remains student-centered, making it a safe space as we discuss and attempt to dismantle the intersecting issues of racism, classism, and sexism.

I focus on quality teaching, engaging students and fostering a positive learning environment while incorporating innovative methods and technologies to enhance the learning experience.

One of my passions is to connect these areas in and out of the classroom. I am always eager to build bridges and connect with students, faculty, community members and artists. My classes always employ community engaged scholarship and action-based research as well as artistic and creative endeavors and projects tied to the community and the student’s interests.

Publishing and Creative

My work in research, scholarly and creative work is not a job, but a deep calling, a responsibility and an honor. I come from generations of social justice advocates from the Chicano/a movement who work at interweaving these areas and communities.

My research interests include Chicana/o art, social practice art, art, art history, cultural studies, Mesoamerican religions and art, gender and women’s studies, spirituality, religion, social movements, creative writing, poetry, folklore, music, performance studies and more. 

To this end, my creative and research projects include: 

• Mujeres de Maiz
  • Case study,
  • Book anthology (Spring 2024)

• Art. poetry and installation exhibitions or performance of my work.

Service

I believe my vision of service is an interwoven tapestry of the various university components and offerings as well as a deep connection to family, community and the field of Chicanx Latinx Studies overall.  

By balancing these elements, I hope to contribute not only to the academic success of my students but also to the overall advancement of Cal State Long Beach and the academic community at large. 

Reflection on my service activities assure alignment with my values, institutional goals, and the needs of the academic and overall community.

My approach to service includes a belief in diversity, equity and inclusion and creative components and interventions. As a multifaceted artist and academic within the social practice field, I am always expanding terms and understandings of what is art, community, and service.. The proposals and listings below share my work towards that interwoven vision.