TAMIU Alums Featured in Recent Texas Folklore Society Publication
Five Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) alums have garnered statewide acclaim for their recent written contributions.
TAMIU alumni Lucia Santa Anna, Graciela Chavez, Aleida Granados, Victoria Spring and Daniel Tovar, Jr. were recently featured in “Gather ’Round: Gatherings in Texas and the Southwest,” a publication released by the Texas Folklore Society (TFS).
The book features the works of more than 30 authors with varied topics ranging from how gatherings mark different stages of life, from birth to death, while others consider gatherings based on special interests, such as crafting and music.
“Throughout the book, contributors consider the importance of coming together and the ways that communities are built and strengthened through traditional gatherings,” noted the TFS in a news release.
In their contributions, University alumni Santa Anna and Chavez explored the cultural traditions of the carne asada, or backyard barbecue, and Chicano tattooing, respectively.
Granados reflects on a rural way of life, while Spring discussed folklore, betrayal, and survival of a displaced community. Tovar takes readers on a “wishful car ride.”
University alumni submitted their essays as a part of a project in Dr. Kaitlyn Chacon’s Summer 2022 Folklore Studies class. Dr. Chacon, a TAMIU assistant professor of English, asked students to identify instances of folklore in their own lives and communities and analyze its importance, reaching into their communities with curiosity and critical thinking.
“Their work is a balance of impressive academic research and fantastic storytelling that draws you in and paints a beautiful picture of the gatherings of Laredo and beyond,” Chacon said.
She continued, “The project is a great example of how folklore and its academic study can allow us to understand and connect with our families and communities. I am grateful to the TFS for the opportunity to share these stories. We hope to continue this partnership.”
“Gather 'Round: Gatherings in Texas and the Southwest” is currently available for pre-order and is expected to be published in Fall/Winter 2025. The publication will also be distributed at no additional cost to TFS members.
Learn more at www.texasfolkloresociety.org.
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