Friday, Nov. 27, 2009
Author speaks at college, arts center
Francisco Jimenez speaks to students, community on 'Circuit'
By Samantha Salas / ssalas@losbanosenterprise.com
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ReprintMeg Withers, a professor at Merced College Los Baños Campus, has a theory she applies heavily in her English classes on campus.
In her attempt to build each student's skill level, Withers aims to move the students three academic years in one semester.
"My students improve at least two years in a semester," Withers said. "That is a miracle."
In order to provide this opportunity of concentrated success, Withers chooses reading material that is relatable to her students; subject matter of poverty, non-English speaking upbringings, low education levels and the like.
"The material directly relates to a life they're already familiar with," she said. "It's not utterly strange or foreign to them."
Author Francisco Jiménez, who visited the college campus and the Ted Falasco Arts Center on Nov. 20, has everything to do with making sure Withers' theory makes an impact on her students.
Withers met Jiménez in 2003 and she was so impressed with his work she incorporated it into her curriculum.
Withers' student base are enrolled in her developmental-level English classes, meaning they test in third to ninth grade literacy levels.
Withers said when a unmotivated reader is introduced to methods of reading relatable material, they cognitively begin to familiarize with the subject matter.
"The retention rate increases, their interest in reading is automatically spurred; it's the kind of knowledge they're already familiar with," Withers said. "It's so logical."
Withers' students soon began to realize the value of reading a book start to finish.
During his visit, Jiménez discussed his work and his life, and how his upbringing inspired his books. His main focus was on his collection of autobiographical short stories, "The Circuit."
Because Withers' discovery of the wealth of Latino literature, not only in California, but in the Central Valley, she's found "The Circuit," is the perfect book to introduce the powerful author.
"He's work is so understandable, he uses clear language, it's touching. It has every element you'd want in a book," she said.
For the past year, Withers and other Merced College faculty members have been working, planning, and raising funds to bring Jiménez to Los Baños. And they were pleased with the positive support they received from everyone in the community.
Withers is sure Jiménez left the same impression on Los Baños he's made upon her life.
"It's like being around Ghandi or the Dalai Lama. He has a strong sense of who he is, of his purpose. He's so peaceful and very humane," Withers said. "I did this for my students, but I got more than anyone out of this."
To raise enough funds to bring the author to town, fees Jiménez cut in half for the occasion Withers said, the college held many fundraisers in support of a visiting authors program Withers is well underway with. The second author is set for fall 2010.
Raffles were held in the program's honor, one of which local businessman Joe Gutierrez helped facilitate, bringing more than two-thirds of the needed funds, she said.
Used book sales held at the college's semiannual fairs also brought in funds for the visit. Books were donated by community members, faculty and staff, and students, while homemade bookmarks, made by Susan Kimoto, also a professor, and expandable book shelves, donated and made by the Los Baños Rotary Club also contributed.
Raffle ticket purchases at Jiménez' visit also raised funds to go towards the next author's visit.
"(This program) is helping make Los Baños a better place for the students, who I think need it most," Withers said.
Kluane Davis, a first year student in Withers' class, said she was pleased with Jiménez' demeanor during his visit.
"I could relate to him," Davis said.
Brittany Mendonca, also in her first year, said she was surprised at how well-spoken Jiménez was. She also said she enjoyed his visit.
Laura Linres, in her fourth semester at the college, said she appreciated what a sensitive person Jiménez is.
"I'll continue to read his books," Linres said. "They're helping me become a better reader."
Sandra Gonzales said she hadn't read Jiménez' work prior to Withers class, but she become immediately appreciative once his work was implemented in the classroom.
Matt Whitehurst, also in Withers' class, said he is planning to read Jiménez' second book as soon as possible.
Michael Zuniga, a deaf student on campus, said, as translated through Amanda Bosworth of the Deaf and Heard of Hearing Service Center in Fresno, he was amazed by Jiménez.
Zuniga said he, and he assumes, other members of the college and community, felt appreciative of Jiménez' visit.
"It's important for us to have him here," Zuniga said.
Withers said what makes Jiménez a powerful author and inspiring read for people of all ages, backgrounds, statuses and lifestyles is to instill the lesson that there is no dividing line between human beings.
"We are all the same," Withers said. "We all have the experience of being human; of dreams and broken promises. And the idea of all really good literature attempts to show the connection between all of us. There's no separation.
Withers said Jiménez' work can absolutely foster the ability to create a more peaceful society.
"He gives hope because he has a human story," she said. "Because he persevered."
Francisco Jiménez immigrated with his family to California from Tlaquepaque, Mexico, and as a child he worked in the fields of California. He is currently the Fay Boyle Professor in the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures, and director of the Ethnic Studies Program at Santa Clara University. He has published and edited several books on Mexican and Mexican American literature, and his stories have been published in over 50 textbooks and anthologies of literature. Source: Santa Clara University Web site.
Enterprise reporter Samantha Salas can be reached by phone at (209)388-6562 or by e-mail at ssalas@losbanosenterprise.com