Fordham University Press: Stepping Up to Promote Literacy in New York City
By wpengine
15th November 2024
At Fordham University Press (FUP), we believe literacy transcends mere reading and writing—it is a gateway to lifelong learning, critical thinking, and community engagement. In celebration of University Press Week and its #StepUP theme, we’re proud to highlight how FUP is promoting literacy through initiatives and partnerships that enrich the lives of New Yorkers by connecting authors with readers. Our events across New York City and the Tri-State area bring literature to life, fostering community connections and sparking meaningful dialogue.
NYC is a melting pot of stories, and we take pride in supporting local authors who capture its unique essence. By promoting homegrown talent, we contribute to the city’s vibrant literary ecosystem, giving distinctive local voices the attention they deserve. Here are some recent highlights:
Community Partnerships and Collaborations
Empowering Families with LSA Family Health Service
FUP’s commitment to community engagement is highlighted through its partnership with the LSA Family Health Service, founded by the Little Sisters of the Assumption, to support vulnerable families with essential needs like food, healthcare, education, and housing. Recently, FUP celebrated the launch of Mutuality in El Barrio: Stories of the Little Sisters of the Assumption by Carey Kasten and Brenna Moore at Wallace Hall in the Church of St. Ignatius Loyola (NYC). The event was more than a book launch—it brought together friends and supporters who raised over $6,000 for LSA’s vital programs. Attendees gained insights into the inspiring work of the Little Sisters and the resilience of families in El Barrio, fostering a deeper sense of community solidarity.
Celebrating a Cultural Icon at Union Theological Seminary
In November 2023, FUP co-hosted an enlightening discussion on Felipe Luciano’s memoir, Flesh & Spirit, at Union Theological Seminary. The event featured Dr. Samuel Cruz in conversation with Luciano, along with esteemed panelists like Jamal Joseph, Johanna Fernández, Raymond Rivera, and Gary Dorrien. The evening was a testament to the power of storytelling, shedding light on Luciano’s impactful journey through activism, poetry, and journalism. We were honored to partner with Union Theological Seminary and NYU’s Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies for this meaningful gathering.
Disorderly Men at The Center
In September 2023, Edward Cahill and Charles Kaiser kicked off the 2023–2024 Second Tuesday lecture series at the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center. They discussed Edward Cahill’s debut novel, Disorderly Men, exploring themes of identity and transformation in the lives of three men confronting personal crises. The Center, empowering LGBTQ+ New Yorkers since 1983, provided a fitting venue for this profound conversation.
Historical NYC Book Tour with Davida Siwisa James, author of Hamilton Heights and Sugar Hill
In June 2023, award-winning journalist and author Davida Siwisa James led a captivating historical book tour through Hamilton Heights and Sugar Hill. Participants explored the rich history of New York, from Alexander Hamilton’s Harlem to the lives of cultural icons like George Gershwin and Ralph Ellison. The tour included a discussion and reading at the Hamilton Grange National Memorial, followed by a book signing and a visit to the historic Morris-Jumel Mansion. It was a memorable journey that connected past and present, illuminating the vibrant stories that have shaped these neighborhoods.
Reading & Signing at The Queensboro: Raj Tawney, author of Colorful Palate
“Queens Together” hosted an intimate evening with author Raj Tawney this past Tuesday at The Queensboro Restaurant in Jackson Heights, NY. Attendees enjoyed readings from his memoir Colorful Palate and upcoming young adult novel All Mixed Up, exploring themes of multicultural identity, family ties, and culinary traditions over great food in a warm setting.
Telling the Bees: Dominic Pettman in Conversation with Elvia Wilk
That same evening, Dominic Pettman, author of Telling the Bees: An Interspecies Monologue, and Elvia Wilk gave a fascinating talk on his new book at the book launch at The New School, NYC. A huge thanks to everyone who joined their standing-room-only event!
Raj Tawney, author of Colorful Palate, at Queensborough Community College
The following day, Raj Tawney spoke to students and faculty at Queensborough Community College in Bayside, NY. This event engaged attendees in discussions about contemporary issues.
Amplifying Voices with The Ford Foundation
We’re thrilled to share that earlier this year, The Ford Foundation awarded FUP an $8,000 grant to promote Jill Jonnes’s book, South Bronx Rising, 3rd Edition. This campaign aims to distribute the book to New York Public Library branches and organizations throughout the Bronx, highlighting themes of activism, community resilience, and transformation. With the Ford Foundation’s support, we’re able to reach wider audiences and spark important conversations about local history and empowerment.
As part of our educational outreach, we arranged for Jill Jonnes, to participate in the NYPL Bronx History and Activism Program Series. Her discussion shed light on the borough’s rich history of activism and community resilience, particularly during the challenging decades of the 1970s and 1980s. The event ignited conversations about the power of grassroots movements and the importance of preserving local histories.
Community Activism with Angel Garcia
We also welcomed Angel Garcia at the NYPL Soundview Bronx Branch, where he spoke about his book, The Kingdom Began in Puerto: Neil Connolly’s Priesthood in the South Bronx. Garcia, a community organizer, shared his experiences working with Father Neil Connolly. He highlighted how faith and activism intertwined to support the South Bronx’s Puerto Rican community during pivotal times. His insights inspired attendees to consider their roles in fostering social justice and community empowerment.
Partnering with Local NYC Bookstores: *(More Highlights from recent events!)
- Book Culture, Upper West Side (Spring 2024)
- Just City Book Launch: Jennifer Baum, in conversation with Rob Snyder, discussed her vision for a more inclusive urban future. Standing-room only!
- LGBTQ Center, West Village (November 7, 2024)
- In Defense of Sex Book Signing: A timely discussion with Christopher Breu on sexual identity and its intersection with contemporary culture.
- PowerHouse Arena, Brooklyn (September 5, 2024)
- The official launch of Join the Conspiracy with Jonathan Butler and historian Jeremy Varon. The evening was filled with insightful discussion and intrigue.
- P&T Knitwear (November 13, 2024)
- Nicole Gelinas, author of Movement, in conversation with Howard Wolfson, discussed the role of mass transit and streetscapes in New York’s post-pandemic recovery.
Local Book Festivals
FUP continues to engage with the community and promote literacy through book festivals like the 6th Annual Bronx Book Festival in June 2023 and the Brooklyn Book Festival this past September. At BXBF, held at Fordham Plaza, we celebrated the Bronx’s literary heritage and showcased our publications. At BKBF, we joined literary enthusiasts at Brooklyn Borough Hall to foster a love of books across generations.
Academic Conferences & Exhibits
2024 International Conference on Urban Affairs
This past April, we attended the International Conference on Urban Affairs in NYC. The conference brought together urban scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to discuss pressing issues facing cities today. Our participation allowed us to engage with cutting-edge research on urban affairs and to showcase our publications that delve into urban studies, planning, and community development.
La Feria Academic Book Showcase 2024
In October, at the New York Public Library, FUP showcased our publications at La Feria 2024, connecting with scholars, educators, and the public. This event was an excellent opportunity to highlight our latest academic works and engage with the community on educational topics.
College Art Association (CAA) Annual Conference 2025 (Forthcoming)
Scheduled for February 12–15, 2025, at the New York Hilton Midtown, the College Art Association’s 113th Annual Conference is the largest gathering of art historians, artists, designers, curators, and visual arts professionals. We look forward to connecting with attendees and showcasing our publications in art and visual studies.
American Historical Association (AHA) Annual Meeting 2025 (Forthcoming)
Set for January 3–6, 2025, at the New York Hilton Midtown, the AHA’s 138th Annual Meeting is the premier gathering for historians to share research and professional development. FUP will participate to share our contributions to historical scholarship.
#StepUP for Literacy
Fordham University Press is committed to stepping up for literacy in NYC. Through our partnerships, events, and dedication to inclusive publishing, we’re working to make literature accessible and engaging for all. We invite you to join us in this journey—attend our events, explore our publications, and become part of a community that values the transformative power of reading.
Together, we can foster a culture of literacy that not only educates but also empowers and uplifts. Thank you for supporting FUP as we continue to step up and make a difference in our community.
For more information about our upcoming events and publications, please visit our website at fordhampress.com. Connect with us on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Threads.
2024 UP BLOG TOUR (#StepUP):
