November 6: Mt. SAC Culturama

I’ve either taught at or participated in Culturama, Mt. San Antonio College’s free multi-day festival for the arts, for something like a decade now. I always feel so lucky to meet the other faculty members who are there, and to contribute to the learning of the students who come.

I was introduced to Mt. SAC through its former director of creative writing, the late John Brantingham. John died unexpectedly earlier this year, and I’m not over it. When John introduced me to his work at Mt. SAC, I didn’t know much about community colleges and the significant role they play in our society.

Aside from this, John taught me so much more about the power of community; the value of pedagogy. I wouldn’t be where I am today without him. He was the most generous of teachers, the most delightful of conversation partners. He was a good friend.

Friday, November 6 at 1PM I’m teaching a workshop on Asian story structures. Then at 2:30 I’m teaching a workshop on the dreaded personal essay. There’s a ton of other good classes going on, from November 5-7. (Workshops on the 6th are in-person; on the 7th they’re online!)

At 4PM on the 6th there’s a memorial for John. Everyone is welcome; Culturama is free. Please come. You can register for Culturama here.