As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, it is a fitting time to honor and recognize the contributions of CSU Pueblo alumni who embody the rich culture, traditions, and history of the Hispanic community. One such alumna is Roni C. Rivera-Ashford, a 1974 graduate of CSU Pueblo’s Foreign Languages program. Through her work as a bilingual children’s author and educator, Roni has become a powerful voice for Hispanic heritage, bridging cultures through the beauty of storytelling. Her passion for language and her deep connection to her roots make her an inspiring figure to highlight during this season of celebration.
Born and raised in Nogales, Arizona, Roni’s journey with language and culture began at home. Growing up in a multicultural environment, she learned to value her heritage while embracing both English and Spanish from a young age. This early exposure to multiple languages and cultures would later inspire her to pursue a degree in foreign languages at CSU Pueblo.
During her time at CSU Pueblo, Roni deepened her understanding of language as a bridge between cultures. Studying foreign languages was more than just mastering vocabulary—it was about learning how language connects people, traditions, and history. Roni fondly recalls the support and encouragement she received from her professors, who pushed her to explore new perspectives, communicate across cultural barriers, and share her own story.
Following graduation, Roni channeled her love of language into education, where she became a passionate advocate for bilingualism. Over the years, she worked as a teacher and translator, always striving to create opportunities for others to embrace bilingual education and cultural understanding. But it was through her work as a children’s book author that Roni found her true calling.
Roni released her children’s book, My Nana’s Remedies/Los remedios de mi Nana, a book that highlights the traditional healing practices of her grandmother. Since then, she has gone on to publish numerous works, with some of her most beloved stories like Hip, Hip, Hooray, It’s Monsoon Day!, a bilingual celebration of one of the Southwest’s most cherished natural events. Through her writing, Roni brings to life her heritage, her family, and the cultural richness of her community, sharing them with readers of all ages. There are four more bilingual books and five books to accompany the Academy-Award Winning Disney movie, Coco.
Her work has garnered national attention, earning awards for its contributions to multicultural and bilingual literature. Roni’s ability to weave English and Spanish together in a way that honors both languages has made her a prominent voice in bilingual education. Her stories, rooted in family wisdom, tradition, and community values, resonate deeply with readers, encouraging them to embrace their own cultural backgrounds.
“My books are educational with extended learning glossaries in the back matter, and most have AR and/or Lexile Levels along with Teacher Guides because of the state or national recognition they’ve received,” said Roni. “While most of my books are picture books, I say they are for ages 3 to 103 because of their worldwide cultural relevance, and the intergenerational connections they bring, as well as support for preserving history and traditions.”
Beyond her writing, Roni remains dedicated to promoting literacy and bilingual education. She continues to visit schools, libraries, and community centers, engaging with young readers and fostering a love for storytelling. Her enthusiasm for creating connections through language shines in every project she undertakes.
Roni’s work exemplifies the spirit of CSU Pueblo’s mission to create a diverse and inclusive learning environment. Her contributions to bilingual literature not only celebrate the richness of her heritage but also inspire future generations to explore the power of language, identity, and storytelling.
Reflecting on her journey, Roni credits her time at CSU Pueblo for nurturing her love of languages and giving her the tools to tell stories that cross cultural and linguistic divides.
“CSU Pueblo gave me the foundation I needed to pursue my passion for bilingual education and writing,” she says. “It’s a place where I learned that language is not just about words—it’s about understanding and connection.”
When asked to provide advice to current students or recent alumni, Roni said:
“I will say what the late former Governor of Arizona, Raúl H. Castro, also in his day, a teacher, a lawyer, a county attorney, superior court judge and three times U.S. Ambassador to El Salvador, Bolivia and Argentina, would say: “DREAM BIG, BELIEVE IN YOURSELF, NEVER GIVE UP, and ALWAYS DO YOUR BEST (your best will wax and wane with the tides of life), AND Governor Castro walked his talk up until his 98th year of life.
If you feel you’re having a rough go of it, a tough time finding a job, or some kind of discrimination, I’m going to recommend you read my book – a simple yet profound YA chapter book – the biography of Governor Castro. You’ll probably get through it in a day or a few, even if you’re working. When you read what he overcame, you’ll realize you can too! YES YOU CAN – ¡SÍ SE PUEDE!”
Today, Roni C. Rivera-Ashford continues to inspire readers with her heartfelt stories, creating a legacy that spans borders and generations. CSU Pueblo is proud to celebrate her achievements as one of our distinguished alumni and looks forward to seeing how her stories will continue to touch the lives of many.
