Dean's Message

Message from Valerie Fong, Division Dean

Welcome to the Language Arts and Ethnic Studies Division.

In our division, you’ll find:

• Degrees in English, Spanish, and Japanese
• Certificates of Competency (noncredit) in English as a Second Language and English Bridge to Transfer
• Courses in Ethnic Studies, Japanese, Spanish, English, Creative Writing, Journalism, and English as a Second Language.

Our Values Whether you are earning a degree or certificate or taking our courses to satisfy GE requirements, improve your skills, or for lifelong learning, you may see and experience our values and ethos. We believe: that there is a deep relationship between language, culture, and identity; that our own identities and communities are a source of pride and power; that understanding how others think and view the world is a core aspect of human relationships; that expression and student voice are critical agents of civic engagement and social justice.

Linguistic Justice Lab

Our division’s Linguistic Justice Lab is the embodiment of our values. In this space, you’ll find a range of activities and events that honor linguistic diversity and student voice, expression, and engagement in the language(s) of your choosing. Visit our Linguistic Justice Lab webpage for more information about the activities and events in this space.

Key Collaborations

The faculty in the Language Arts & Ethnic Studies Division actively participate and collaborate in a number of programs, projects, and events across the campus! You’ll find them working in/with:

Skills for Any Academic Major and Professional Field You Choose

The learning that happens in all of our programs – whether ESL, foreign languages, Ethnic Studies, or English – will give you valuable skills for any academic major and professional field you choose. Through critical reading and writing about society and the human condition, you’ll learn how

• to ask questions and actively listen;
• to recognize complex contexts and problems;
• to build awareness and empathy for diverse perspectives; and
• to evaluate solutions to make the world a better a better place.

I invite you to explore our program webpages and other links on our division homepage. And don’t hesitate to reach out to me if I can be of any assistance.

Valerie Fong
Dean, Language Arts and Ethnic Studies