UCF will celebrate Spanish language and culture at the 18th Annual Spanish Graduate Association (SaGA) Colloquium. The colloquium, coordinated by the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures, is a conference that gives students the opportunity to disseminate their research on topics concerning the Spanish-speaking world. It will take place at the Student Union Pegasus Ballroom on February 22nd, 2018 from 8 A.M. to 6 P.M.
The first colloquium coincided with the founding of the Spanish master of arts program. The colloquium continues to be a springboard for students’ professional development, encouraging further studies in Spanish literature, culture and linguistics. By presenting their research, students in attendance will be preparing for future professional conferences and research publications.
“In addition to gaining experience in public speaking, our graduate and undergraduate students have the chance to interact with their audience and speak extemporaneously about the projects they have developed,” said Lisa Nalbone, the Spanish MA Program Director and SaGA Faculty Advisor. The colloquium is one of the resources SaGA provides that is in line with its mission: “to give leadership and educational opportunities to its members.” Further resources include professional workshops, poetry readings, and musical presentations.
The focus of this year’s colloquium is Peninsular Spanish Literature and Culture. A one-act play incorporating this theme will be performed, entitled “Lo Que Tú Quieras” (“Whatever You Want”). It was written by Spanish playwrights Serafín and Joaquín Álvarez Quintero in 1917. A student adapted the play for use in the colloquium. Along with this cultural performance, Sarah Sierra and José B. Fernández (UCF’s first Hispanic Dean) will give plenary speeches. “The SaGA is paying Dr. Fernández special recognition this year for his continuous support of the colloquium since its inception,” Nalbone said.
Various round table discussions will feature the Peruvian Student Association at UCF (PerúSA) and Tertulia 4Gatos, a community-based literary discussion group that is gaining popularity in Central Florida. Invited high school students will present their research and participate in the discussions as well. The teachers of these students are graduates of the Spanish MA program. “These instructors are a testimony to the symbiotic relationship faculty cultivates to foster success of current, previous and potential students,” Nalbone said.
Students can register to attend the colloquium by emailing SaGA@ucf.edu with their contact information, or by visiting the registration table outside of the Pegasus Ballroom on February 22, 2018.