Más Allá del Aula*
*Beyond the classroom
Dr. Diana Torres Inspires
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ishop Dunne teachers are full of heart and dedication, and Dr. Diana Torres best embodies both qualities. Her educational journey began at a young age – Dr. Torres always knew she wanted to teach. Inspired by her teachers in middle and high school, she pursued a bachelor’s degree in Hispanic studies with a focus on Spanish literature, history and linguistics. She attended graduate school in Spain and earned her PhD under the tutelage of Dr. Maria Caballero at the University of Sevilla. Her focus was the works of Puerto Rican Writer Edgardo Rodriguez Julia, and her studies helped her view Puerto Rico with a broader, intersectional scope. She specifically enjoyed her time researching Puertorriqueños literature, opinion pieces and new journalism, which explores the Caribbean, its languages and its cultures. Dr. Torres then taught at the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico for
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the next three years, where she proudly demonstrated her expertise in the ministry of teaching. She had the opportunity to teach at the University of Puerto Rico’s Laboratory Schools, where she attended middle and high school and determined she wanted to pursue a PhD. She credits her time at UHS for deepening her critical thinking skills and providing her the chance to work with people from various backgrounds. Dr. Torres later moved to Dallas with her family and began teaching at Bishop Dunne shortly after. As four years have passed since she dawned her Falcon wings, Dr. Torres reflects upon her growth as an educator, mother and role model. This year, the Catholic Schools Office honored Dr. Torres with two awards. The Work of Heart Award program, created in partnership with The Catholic Foundation, recognizes fulltime teachers who demonstrate diligence
in their craft. Most recently, she recieved the HALO Educator of the Year Award. Amongst 27 nominees across the school system, Dr. Torres has been recognized as one of three distinguished educators from Catholic schools in the Diocese of Dallas who form scholars and saints on the road to college and heaven. Dr. Torres currently resides in Sunset Hills with her husband, Omar and their three children, Elena, Felipe and Lucía. She states Bishop Dunne is unique, as it is a place where different socioeconomic backgrounds gather, yet equity is honored throughout all aspects of the school. As this is her first four-year senior class, she wishes to share a parting message with the Class of 2020. “I hope our seniors continue to show up in life, continue to show up to every challenge and continue to show up for their families the way they have for Bishop Dunne.” JULY 2020
CONNECTIONS
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