Faculty Spotlight: María Ortiz
When did you start at UC Blue Ash and what are your responsibilities?
I taught part-time at UCBA from 2009-2010, then started full time during the fall of 2013. I teach all basic level and intermediate courses of Spanish language. I provide support in different areas with service activities to the department, college, university, and the community. These are related to promoting a community and culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion for all, as well as promoting language learning.
What is your favorite thing about working/teaching at UCBA?
I believe that the students attending UCBA are what makes the campus really unique. We have students from all walks of life, and they come together at our campus looking for an opportunity to become their best self so they can help others as well. Their achievements continue to fuel my teaching!
Do you have any hobbies or activities that you enjoy outside of working at UCBA?
I played the saxophone in a jazz band, but I also love photography, cooking, walking, watching auto-racing, and traveling the world. I also enjoy visiting Puerto Rico whenever I can. I was born and raised there before moving to Cincinnati in the summer of 2002.
What is one interesting fact about you (that you would feel comfortable with sharing)?
As part of my travels, in 2019 I taught my Food, Identity, and Culture class at the Xi’an International Studies University of China, and in 2015 I taught an English lesson for elementary kids in Kampong Chan, Cambodia. Also, I was able to introduce one of my favorite Latin songs during a live radio show interview I did a long time ago. It was a bucket-list moment!
Resources
Contact Information
Admissions Office
Phone: 513-558-9998
Email: admissions@ucblueash.edu