Porterville College Welcomes Rafael Agustin for Writer and Poets Speaker Series

The Porterville College's Writer and Poets Speaker Series continued its successful run this week with an in-person event on April 3rd, featuring Rafael Agustin. The event drew a large crowd of students, faculty, and staff to the SCCR, eager to hear from the acclaimed author and writer.

Rafael Agustin, born in Ecuador and now a celebrated voice in literature and television, shared passages from his bestselling comedic memoir, "Illegally Yours," and engaged in a lively dialogue with the audience. His personal story of immigrating to the United States at the age of 7 and navigating life, education, and identity resonated deeply with attendees.

Agustin's impressive background includes writing for the award-winning television series "Jane The Virgin" and holding the distinction of being a past Sundance Institute Episodic Fellow. He has also served as the founding Executive Director of the Youth Cinema Project and the founding CEO of the Latino Film Institute. In 2018, the United Nations invited Agustin to speak at their 70th Anniversary Celebration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and in 2022, the LA Times recognized him as a "Power Player" in their LA Vanguardia class. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Mother Jones and the National Film Preservation Board at the Library of Congress.

The event, held inside the SCCR, provided a unique opportunity for the community to connect with Agustin's work and gain insights into his experiences. The question-and-answer session was a highlight, fostering a dynamic exchange between the author and the audience.

PC continues to be committed to bringing diverse and inspiring voices to campus through the Writer and Poets Speaker Series, enriching the cultural and intellectual landscape of the college and our community.