The University of New Mexico Alumni Association celebrates New Mexico native and Chicano author Rudolfo Anaya on Oct. 17 with its second Lobo Living Room program of the semester. This special Lobo Living Room event, titled "Magic of Words," celebrates the life, legacy, and work of Anaya.

The evening will feature a tribute to Anaya’s life and work and his impact on literature and culture. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore curated special collections and tour the newly unveiled Rudolfo Anaya Sala, a dedicated space celebrating his lasting influence. The Lobo Living Room gets underway at 5:30 p.m. with a reception. The program starts at 6 p.m. and will be held in the west wing of Zimmerman Library. Space is limited. Click here to register. Free Parking is available in C Lot starting at 5 p.m. (Corner of Las Lomas and University).

Rudolfo Anaya

Anaya is known as “The Godfather of Chicano Literature” and is best known for his famous 1972 published novel turned movie “Bless me Ultima,” a book that would sell over 300,000 copies before hitting the big screen in 2013. It is included in PBS’ list of “Top 100 Great American Reads,” which includes famous reads like “To Kill a Mockingbird” and “Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone.”

Anaya returned to UNM in 1974 to teach creative writing until his retirement in 1993. Shortly after receiving his B.A., he taught elementary and secondary education English. In 1995, Anaya published his first children’s book, "The Farolitos of Christmas.” In 2002 he was awarded a National Medal of Arts and in 2016, was awarded the 2015 National Humanities Medal from former President Barack Obama.

“His works of fiction and poetry celebrate the Chicano experience and reveal universal truths about the human condition,” said Obama during the Medal of Arts and Humanities Ceremony. “And as an educator, he has spread a love of literature to new generations.”

Anaya was born in the Village of Pastura, N.M. Oct. 30, 1937. He attended UNM where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Literature in 1963. Later, he obtained two master’s degrees in English in 1968 and Guidance and Counseling in 1971.

The impact of Anaya at The University of New Mexico holds true, as his stories defined New Mexico's history and culture.

For more information, visit the Lobo Living Room.