Rosanna Alvarez

Rosanna Alvarez is a Lecturer in the Chicana and Chicano Studies Department at San José State University. She holds an M.A. in Chicana and Chicano Studies from SJSU (2012) and a B.S. in Political Science from Santa Clara University (2002). As a braided scholar, her work integrates creative arts, education, and community engagement.

Her research interests center on cultural identity, creative expression, and community empowerment. Key themes include Chicana/o heritage, self-recovery through art, and the role of storytelling in social justice. She has taught at SJSU, Evergreen Valley College, and De Anza College in departments including Women's Studies and Comparative Ethnic Studies.

Alvarez is founder of Citlali Rose, creator of the Hella Chingona Podcast, and co-founder/editorial director of Eastside Magazine. Her 2023 poetry collection Braided [Un]Be-Longing exemplifies her focus on poetic legacy and collective identity. She has collaborated with organizations like Apple, SVCreates, and Santa Clara County agencies.

Her artistic works include coloring books for empowerment and spoken word performances. Alvarez emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, blending academic research with creative practice to address systemic inequities and cultural preservation.