Glendale Community College

Connecting with...Fabiola Torres

In late June, EdTech released its list of 30 Higher Ed IT Influencers to Follow in 2023. The national publication named GCC’s Fabiola Torres to the exclusive group of individuals who are “lending their voice to promote the continued adoption and integration of technology to make higher education better for everyone.” Congratulations to Fabiola, this month’s subject of “Connecting with...” who we get to know a little better through her own words.

Born on COLLEGE St., nestled within the cultural tapestry of Chinatown and cradled by the historic French Hospital in Los Angeles, I emerged into a vibrant Mexican family rooted in Los Altos de Jalisco, the land of Tequila. I breathed the city's vibrancy, a legacy passed down from my Bracero Abuelito y Papi. They tilled the soil of opportunity under the Immigration and Naturalization Act of 1965, planting the seeds of our familia’s legal immigration to the United States. Today, I stand as the embodiment of my familia’s LA heritage, weaving our rich tapestry further as an Ethnic Studies professor at GCC. Orale! C/S

Why did you choose to work at GCC?
Raised to cherish work as a blessing, I gratefully seized a part-time opportunity at GCC while still completing my Master's in Chicana/Chicano Studies at CSUN. Dr. Mora's faith in my readiness honored me deeply. Soon, I recognized the profound alignment between GCC's community and my personal ties to Northeast LA (NELA) and East San Fernando Valley (San Fer) – it was a homecoming. When presented with the chance to expand the Ethnic Studies Department, I felt a sense of profound duty to Ethnic Studies. This discipline, that once empowered me with a voice during my MEChA student days at LAVC, called me to leverage its impact for all students. 

Do you have a favorite memory working at GCC?
One of my most favorite memories is the unforeseen closure due to Covid. I was acutely conscious of the seismic shift looming, as faculties scrambled to transition to online teaching. Despite being prepared since February, my offer to assist colleagues with the impending shutdown was bluntly rebuffed, and I was curtly told to "stay in my lane." Despite the sting, I persevered, preparing my students and courses for the imminent change. When the shutdown eventually occurred, my inner Pacoima spirit roared, "How you like me now?" Most importantly my students found a calm amidst chaos in my classes. Even in the face of adversity, they thrived. That group of students and I became a unique family that continually nurtures our connection today. I personally thank Michelle Pacansky Brock for amplifying my voice.

What about your job makes you proud?
While it might sound silly to some, I take immense pride in dressing up through the end of each semester. Whether I’m shooting an instructional video for my online classes or standing in front of the classroom, my outfits serve as a significant way of asserting my Chicana identity. Red lipstick, earrings, crisp shirts, polished shoes, well-styled hair - every detail matters in my presentation to my students, regardless of my personal dramas. I refuse to let my "look" dull as the semester progresses. My attire is not merely aesthetic; it is deliberate and symbolic. From politically-charged t-shirts to traditional Mexican huipiles, polished Doc Martens, and varying sizes of hoop earrings and eye wear - each outfit is meticulously chosen, an armor to combat apathy, injustice, or mediocrity. My students deserve my fullest self, and I have an outfit for every version of that self.

One thing about you that might surprise your co-workers. 
It wasn't until my junior year in college that I read a complete book. Undiagnosed severe astigmatism had severely impacted my reading comprehension. So, how did I manage to maintain good grades? My secret allies were the librarians at CSUN. I'd always bring them snacks, grab them coffee, or just hang out and chat when things were chill.

In return, they guided me through the labyrinth of academic research, showing me how to identify the objectives of each assignment and seek answers beyond textbooks. And yes, they even revealed the secret locations of teacher editions (shhh)! However, when I was finally diagnosed and received glasses, it revolutionized my academic experience. Acquiring glasses just as I embarked on my Chicano Literature class unlocked the written world for me, and everything suddenly fell into place. And so my first cover to cover book I read was Rodolfo Anaya's Bless Me, Ultima.

Other interests, hobbies, career achievements?
I LOVE MY 3 DOGS!!! Leia, Wookie and Finn.  They offer me an antidote to the often disheartening news that pervades our country. They bring joy and calm to my life, and for them, I'll do anything - I even go the extra mile to make homemade treats! My father takes pride in the fabulous manners of my dogs, often boasting about his hija’s"best-behaved dogs.” Each of my pups were adopted from LA City Animal Shelters. I frequently say, "My dogs live here. I just pay the mortgage." Whenever I notice their sad faces as I head out for work, I break into my personal rendition of the Pointer Sisters' classic, "She works hard for the money," substituting the lyrics with, "Mama works hard for the kibble."

Person who inspires you.
Princess Leia, a.k.a. General Organa from Star Wars, is like my ultimate role model. She's a total badass, super smart, and a born leader who kicks some serious butt in a genre usually filled with macho heroes. Ever since I was six, she is still a symbol of girl power, resilience, and making your own rules. She's just awesome! RIP Carrie Fisher!

Favorite movies/TV Shows?
Movie:  ALL Star Wars (Yes even Phantom Menace).  I still see Star Wars movies through the eyes of a six-year-old.
Band:  The Clash
Singer: Selena Quintanilla - Although Becky G is close

Favorite magazine/book?
Favorite Author:  bell hooks
Current favorite book:  Rest Is Resistance by Tricia Hersey

Favorite food?
Tacos al pastor from an OG trompo con tortillas hechas a mano, salsa verde, y limoncito. 

Favorite sport to watch or play? 
Dodgers Baseball at the stadium with a Dodger Dog, a cold Modelo with my papi, brother and my Dodger Duchesseseseses.

Describe your perfect day off?
My perfect day off is bowling with my homies in Korea Town, eating Oaxacan street tacos on 3rd/ Berendo St., and philosophizing about Chicanismo at a dive bar around Vermont.