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Azahares Launches 2024 Edition
Written By: Rachel Putman
The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith announced the release of the 2024 edition of Azahares, the university’s award-winning Spanish-language literary magazine with a standing-room-only celebration April 11.
This year’s publication highlights the work of numerous UAFS students and alumni, showcasing their creativity and connection to the Latino experience.
Contributors from the UAFS campus include Spanish majors Cesar Brizuela Zelaya, Evan McClellan, and Jocelyn Soriano; English major and Spanish minor Lila Chapman; Criminal Justice major and Spanish minor Rachel Nuñez; and Media Communication major and Spanish minor Athziri Romero. UAFS alumnae Gabriella Hernandez Donato and Flor Ortega were also featured.
Marlene Toledo, a Spanish major, served as the student editor on the editorial board, working alongside faculty and staff to bring the magazine to life. Dr. Mary A. Sobhani, executive editor, was joined by Dr. Lynda McClellan, Madeline Martinez, Gray Langston, and Susan Buchanan to complete the editorial team.
In addition to the written content, the magazine’s design and artwork were created by a talented student team under the guidance of professor Colin McLain. Ally Savage led the design team as both the lead designer and cover illustrator, with support from Toni Cavillo, Emerald Baker, and Alex Berherns. This year also saw the debut of editorial illustrator Amanda Hubbard, a UAFS alumna, whose contributions added a unique visual dimension to the publication.
The 2024 edition of Azahares was made possible in part through a grant from the Arkansas Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Azahares is the only Spanish-language literary magazine in the region and is a signature program of the UAFS World Languages Department. It provides a platform for both students and community members to express themes related to the Latin experience through literature and artwork. Contributors to the magazine come not only from UAFS, but also from as far away as New York, California, Texas, Spain, and Central and South America.
Named after the azahar, or orange blossom, the publication reflects the fresh perspectives and cultural significance of the Spanish-speaking world.
For more information or to access the latest edition of Azahares, visit https://uafs.edu/academics/colleges-and-schools/college-of-arts-and-sciences/departments/resources/azahares.php