San José, Calif.- Sept. 15, 2011- To mark the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, internationally acclaimed Mexican author Elena Poniatowska will speak at The National Hispanic University (NHU) Sept. 22 on “La Literatura Que Sube de la Calle” or “Literature that Rises From the Street.” In addition, Poniatowska will receive an honorary doctoral degree from NHU and an ongoing scholarship will be announced in her name.

“The National Hispanic University is honored to have Elena Poniatowska speak at our campus about the power of words and literature in bringing attention to social justice and civic issues,” said NHU President Dr. David López. “Elena Poniatowska’s thought leadership is recognized throughout the Spanish-speaking world and beyond, and she brings a multilayered, cross-border perspective to our students, community and guests.”

Poniatowska will speak from 5–6:30 p.m. at NHU, 14271 Story Road in San Jose, Calif. She will deliver her presentation primarily in English and will include time for questions from the public. At the end of the presentation, NHU will bestow Poniatowska with the honorary doctoral degree and a student will receive the first of what will be an ongoing scholarship in her name. The student scholarship will be presented to a student who has demonstrated social justice values and leadership.

Poniatowska grew up in France, Mexico and the United States, but she developed her career as a writer and journalist in Mexico. Her work spans more than five decades, and she has published dozens of books, essays and short stories. Among her many acclaimed works is her documentation of the 1968 Mexico City confrontation between student activists and government armed forces. The awards she has received for her work include the Premio Nacional de Periodismo and the Romulo Gallegos Prize. She was nominated this year for the prestigious Neustadt International Prize for Literature (2012), which recognizes a writer’s entire body of work. Her latest book, Leonora, was published in Spanish this year.

The Sept. 22 lecture by Poniatowska finishes a series of events planned for that day at NHU. The complete agenda for events that are open to the public is listed below:

• 3–4 p.m.: “Global Insights on Moral Values,” by guest speaker Vivien von Son Gallut of Mexico City
• 4–5 p.m.: Video presentation of interviews with Poniatowska
• 5–6:30 p.m.: “La Literatura Que Sube de la Calle” or “Literature that Rises From the Street” by Poniatowska

For media only: 4-4:30 p.m.: Press conference with Elena Poniatowska at the NHU library will be conducted in English and Spanish. Media interested in attending the press conference and/or lecture, please contact NHU public relations manager Anna Cearley-Rivas at acearley@nhu.edu or 1-619-301-3701.