From beginning to advanced classes, language learning and the study of literatures and cultures teaches cultural awareness, deepens the acquisition of a second language, and instills a new sense of self-discovery. I love being part of Augsburg\u2019s commitment to international education and preparing students for international learning, work, volunteer experiences and living abroad.<\/p>\n
My main area of study is Latin America, specifically Mexico, Cuba, and Central America. I teach Spanish at all levels as well as Introduction to Cultural Studies (LCS 100)<\/p>\n
One of my current research projects focuses on the Zapatista revolution in Chiapas, Mexico. Interdisciplinary in its scope, this project draws on human rights activism, indigenous rights, literary analysis, cultural studies and political theory in order to analyze Zapatista strategies to sustain social change. In addition to understanding the day-today workings of the Zapatista revolution, I am doing further research on Subcomandante Marcos\u2019<\/i> fictional detective El\u00edas Contreras<\/i>. Of particular interest in studying the adventures of El\u00edas<\/i>, is how Marcos uses the detective fiction genre to critique capitalism, the Mexican political system, and academics and intellectuals (including Marcos) as he searches for clues and answers to build a better Mexico \u2018desde abajo<\/i>\u2019 (from below).<\/p>\n Upper Midwest Human Rights Fellow, 2007<\/p>\nEducation<\/h2>\n
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