Crafting Identity, Culture, and Resistance: The Poetry of Ricardo Nazario y Colón

Dr. Ricardo Nazario y Colón is a celebrated poet, scholar, and advocate whose work navigates themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Born in the South Bronx and raised in the highlands of Puerto Rico, his experiences as a Nuyorican and Affrilachian voice inform his dynamic poetry and leadership. Currently, he serves as the Senior Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Chief Diversity Officer at the State University of New York (SUNY), where he drives transformative initiatives across the system.

A prolific writer, Dr. Nazario y Colón is the author of *The Moor of the Bronx* (2023), *Of Jíbaros and Hillbillies* (2011), and *The Recital* (2011). His poems have appeared in numerous journals and anthologies, amplifying narratives of underrepresented communities and addressing issues of colonialism, belonging, and resistance. He is a co-founder of the Affrilachian Poets, a collective that champions diverse voices in Appalachian literature.

With over three decades of experience spanning higher education, the U.S. Military, business, and state government, Dr. Nazario y Colón’s career reflects his commitment to fostering equity and inclusion. Before joining SUNY, he pioneered the Chief Diversity Officer role at Western Carolina University, where he served for seven years. His scholarly research centers on the retention of African American faculty and staff, the impact of Black culture centers, and multiracial identity development.

Dr. Nazario y Colón’s leadership extends beyond academia. He has served on numerous boards, including the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education and the Appalachian Studies Association, where he is a past president. His involvement also includes advisory roles with the Appalachian Futures: Black, Native, and Queer Voices initiative and the Fort Bragg Renaming Commission.

A former U.S. Marine and Division I cross country athlete, Dr. Nazario y Colón earned his Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from Western Carolina University, a Master’s degree in Secondary Education from Pace University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Literature and Latin American Studies from the University of Kentucky. He is also a proud life member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

Through his poetry, scholarship, and leadership, Dr. Ricardo Nazario y Colón continues to make an indelible impact, championing the voices and experiences of marginalized communities while bridging cultures and histories.

This talk will be virtual, over Zoom. Click HERE to register.