Jump to navigation

The University of Arizona Wordmark Line Logo White
UA Profiles | Home
  • Phonebook
  • Edit My Profile
  • Feedback

Profiles search form

Ofelia Zepeda

  • Professor, Linguistics
  • Professor, Language-Reading and Culture
  • Regents Professor
  • Professor, American Indian Studies-GIDP
  • Professor, Second Language Acquisition / Teaching - GIDP
  • Member of the Graduate Faculty
Contact
  • (520) 621-8294
  • Communication, Rm. 108B
  • Tucson, AZ 85721
  • ofelia@arizona.edu
  • Bio
  • Interests
  • Courses
  • Scholarly Contributions

Degrees

  • Ph.D. Linguistics
    • University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
    • Papago Morphology

Work Experience

  • American Indian Studies Department (2014 - 2015)
  • University of Arizona Department of linguistics (2013 - 2014)
  • University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona (2007 - Ongoing)
  • University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona (2007 - Ongoing)

Awards

  • Honorary Doctorate
    • Tufts University, Spring 2021
  • Planning Committee member for the North America and the Arctic Consultations for the Preparation of the Global Action Plan of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (IDIL2022-2032)
    • UNESCO Decade of Indigenous Languages InternationalTask Force, Spring 2021
  • Advisory Board Member, Endangered Language Fund
    • The Endangered Language Fund, Yale University, Fall 2020
  • Nominated to Ad Hoc Plannig Committee for International Decade for Indigenous Languages
    • 2022 will initiate the International Decade for Indigenous Languages (IDIL) by UNESCO. I was nominated by a working group for the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (DRIP) to be on of the representatives from the United States., Fall 2020
  • Paul Harris Fellow
    • THe Rotary Foundation, Fall 2019
  • Victor Golla Award
    • SSILA (Society for the Study of Indigenous Languages Association, Fall 2019
  • Tucson-Best Author
    • The Tucson Weekly readership, Fall 2018
  • Library Legend Award
    • The University of Arizona Library., Fall 2017
  • 202017 ADFL Award for Distinguished Service to the Profession.
    • Modern Language Association & Association of Departments of Foreign Languages (ADFL)2017 ADFL Award for Distinguished Service to the Profession., Spring 2017
  • Elected president of the Board of Trustees for Tohono O'odham Community College
    • Tohono O'odham Community College Board of Trustees, Spring 2017
  • MOCA Local Genius Award nominee
    • Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Tucson, Fall 2015
  • Hall of Fame Inaugural Class-Stanfield Elem. School
    • Stanfield Elementary School, Spring 2015
  • Ofelia Zepeda Endowment
    • Had endowment named for me in Linguistics to support faculty working in endangered languages and documentation, Fall 2013
  • SBS Alumni of the Year Award
    • College of Social Social and Behavioral Sciences, Fall 2013
  • no entry
    • ;Description: I have no entry;, Spring 2010

Related Links

Share Profile

Interests

Teaching

Tohono O'odham language pedagogy, Language maintenance and revitalization

Research

Tohono O'odham language, Language revitalization

Courses

2025-26 Courses

  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307A (Fall 2025)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307A (Fall 2025)
  • Linguistic Theory
    LING 697A (Fall 2025)

2024-25 Courses

  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307B (Spring 2025)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307B (Spring 2025)
  • Independent Study
    LING 499 (Spring 2025)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Spring 2025)
  • Thesis
    LING 910 (Spring 2025)
  • Dissertation
    LING 920 (Fall 2024)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307A (Fall 2024)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307A (Fall 2024)
  • Independent Study
    LING 499 (Fall 2024)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Fall 2024)
  • Thesis
    LING 910 (Fall 2024)

2023-24 Courses

  • Struc Non-Western Lang
    LING 445A (Summer I 2024)
  • Struc Non-Western Lang
    LING 545A (Summer I 2024)
  • Dissertation
    LING 920 (Spring 2024)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307B (Spring 2024)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307B (Spring 2024)
  • Independent Study
    LING 399 (Spring 2024)
  • Independent Study
    LING 499 (Spring 2024)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Spring 2024)
  • Dissertation
    LING 920 (Fall 2023)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307A (Fall 2023)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307A (Fall 2023)
  • Independent Study
    LING 399 (Fall 2023)
  • Independent Study
    LING 499 (Fall 2023)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Fall 2023)

2022-23 Courses

  • Dissertation
    LING 920 (Summer I 2023)
  • Independent Study
    LING 499 (Summer I 2023)
  • Dissertation
    LING 920 (Spring 2023)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307B (Spring 2023)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307B (Spring 2023)
  • Dissertation
    LING 920 (Fall 2022)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307A (Fall 2022)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307A (Fall 2022)
  • Independent Study
    LING 399 (Fall 2022)
  • Independent Study
    LING 499 (Fall 2022)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Fall 2022)
  • Independent Study
    LING 699 (Fall 2022)
  • Thesis
    LING 910 (Fall 2022)
  • Tpcs Native Am Lang+Ling
    AIS 696J (Fall 2022)
  • Tpcs Native Am Lang+Ling
    LING 696J (Fall 2022)

2021-22 Courses

  • Dissertation
    LING 920 (Summer I 2022)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307B (Spring 2022)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307B (Spring 2022)
  • Independent Study
    LING 399 (Spring 2022)
  • Independent Study
    LING 499 (Spring 2022)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Spring 2022)
  • Thesis
    LING 910 (Spring 2022)
  • Desc Ling Native Am Lang
    LING 597A (Fall 2021)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307A (Fall 2021)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307A (Fall 2021)
  • Independent Study
    LING 399 (Fall 2021)
  • Independent Study
    LING 499 (Fall 2021)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Fall 2021)

2020-21 Courses

  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307B (Spring 2021)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307B (Spring 2021)
  • Independent Study
    LING 499 (Spring 2021)
  • Thesis
    LING 910 (Spring 2021)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307A (Fall 2020)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307A (Fall 2020)
  • Honors Independent Study
    LING 499H (Fall 2020)
  • Independent Study
    LING 399 (Fall 2020)
  • Struc Non-Western Lang
    AIS 445A (Fall 2020)
  • Struc Non-Western Lang
    LING 445A (Fall 2020)
  • Struc Non-Western Lang
    LING 545A (Fall 2020)

2019-20 Courses

  • Internship/Hum Lang Tech
    LING 593A (Summer I 2020)
  • Stdy American Indian Lit
    ENGL 577 (Summer I 2020)
  • Studies Native Amer Lit
    ENGL 477 (Summer I 2020)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307B (Spring 2020)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307B (Spring 2020)
  • Honors Independent Study
    LING 299H (Spring 2020)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Spring 2020)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307A (Fall 2019)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307A (Fall 2019)
  • Honors Independent Study
    LING 499H (Fall 2019)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Fall 2019)
  • Tpcs Native Am Lang+Ling
    LING 696J (Fall 2019)

2018-19 Courses

  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Summer I 2019)
  • Thesis
    LING 910 (Summer I 2019)
  • Dissertation
    LING 920 (Spring 2019)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307B (Spring 2019)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307B (Spring 2019)
  • Honors Independent Study
    LING 299H (Spring 2019)
  • Independent Study
    LING 499 (Spring 2019)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Spring 2019)
  • Thesis
    LING 910 (Spring 2019)
  • Amer Indian Languages
    AIS 210 (Fall 2018)
  • Amer Indian Languages
    LING 210 (Fall 2018)
  • Dissertation
    LING 920 (Fall 2018)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307A (Fall 2018)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307A (Fall 2018)
  • Honors Independent Study
    LING 399H (Fall 2018)
  • Independent Study
    LING 299 (Fall 2018)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Fall 2018)
  • Thesis
    LING 910 (Fall 2018)

2017-18 Courses

  • Thesis
    LING 910 (Summer I 2018)
  • Dissertation
    LING 920 (Spring 2018)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307B (Spring 2018)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307B (Spring 2018)
  • Independent Study
    LING 399 (Spring 2018)
  • Independent Study
    LING 499 (Spring 2018)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Spring 2018)
  • Internship
    AIS 493 (Spring 2018)
  • Research
    LING 900 (Spring 2018)
  • Thesis
    LING 910 (Spring 2018)
  • Dissertation
    LING 920 (Fall 2017)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307A (Fall 2017)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307A (Fall 2017)
  • Independent Study
    LING 299 (Fall 2017)
  • Independent Study
    LING 499 (Fall 2017)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Fall 2017)
  • Thesis
    LING 910 (Fall 2017)
  • Tpcs Native Am Lang+Ling
    LING 696J (Fall 2017)

2016-17 Courses

  • Internship
    AIS 493 (Summer I 2017)
  • Thesis
    LING 910 (Summer I 2017)
  • Dissertation
    LING 920 (Spring 2017)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307B (Spring 2017)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307B (Spring 2017)
  • Independent Study
    AIS 499 (Spring 2017)
  • Independent Study
    LING 499 (Spring 2017)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Spring 2017)
  • Internship
    AIS 493 (Spring 2017)
  • Dissertation
    LING 920 (Fall 2016)

2015-16 Courses

  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Summer I 2016)
  • Dissertation
    AIS 920 (Spring 2016)
  • Dissertation
    LING 920 (Spring 2016)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    AIS 307B (Spring 2016)
  • Elem O'Odham Language
    LING 307B (Spring 2016)
  • Independent Study
    AIS 599 (Spring 2016)
  • Independent Study
    LING 399 (Spring 2016)
  • Independent Study
    LING 499 (Spring 2016)
  • Independent Study
    LING 599 (Spring 2016)
  • Thesis
    AIS 910 (Spring 2016)
  • Thesis
    LING 910 (Spring 2016)

Related Links

UA Course Catalog

Scholarly Contributions

Books

  • Zepeda, O. (2021). Weaving Language: Spirituality and Tradition Through Poetry. Cook Christian Ministry Tempe, AZ.
    More info
    The book project was funded by the Arizona Humanities Council. The funding included support for two workshops to discuss Biblical texts and traditional O'odham texts and commonalities. The goal was to have O'odham attendees produce poems that spoke to the spiritual views from Christianity and those of O'odham culture. I facilitated the discussions, the writing workshops and editing of the writing. Some of the writing was in O'odham.
  • Zepeda, O. (2019). Síla oceánu: básně z pouště. Czech Republic: Dybbuk Publisher.
    More info
    A translation of my book, Ocean Power: Poems from the Desert into Czech. Translation done by Daniela Simon and Ivan Klima
  • Zepeda, O. (2019). When It Rains/Mat Hekid o Ju. Arizona: University of Arizona Press.
    More info
    When it was first released in 1982, When It Rains was one of the earliest published literary works in the O’odham language. Speakers from across generations shared poems that showcased the aesthetic of the written word and aimed to spread interest in reading and writing in O’odham.
  • Zepeda, O., Carls, A., Cayol, M., & Cayol, P. (2018). Aligning The World/Entre au Monde. Printed by Archetype a Forcalquier.
    More info
    This is an art chapbook written in English, O'odham and French.Marie Cayol and Alice-Catherine Carls were the translators and Pierre Cayol produced five linocuts for the collection. The collection has a limited print.
  • Magrane, E. (2016). Sonoran Desert: A literary Field Guide. University of Arizona Press.
    More info
    Invited to contribute one poem to the book.
  • Zepeda, O. (2008). Where Clouds are Formed.
    More info
    ;Full Citation: Where Clouds are Formed.University of Arizona Press. 2009;
  • Zepeda, O. (2007). xxxx.
    More info
    ;Your Role: author;Full Citation: xxxxxxxxxxxxxx;

Chapters

  • Zepeda, O. (2017). Feasting. In Eat Mesquite: A Sonoran Cookbook for Desert Food and Living(p. 1). Desert Harvesters.
    More info
    Poem:"Feasting"
  • Zepeda, O., McCarty, T., & Romero-Little, E. (2014). The Racializing Function of Medium-of Instruction Policies in Indigenous and Minoritized Education. In Researching Racein Education:Policy, Practice and Qualitative Research. Information Age Publishing.
  • Zepeda, O. (2011). The Color of Nature.
    More info
    ;Your Role: Selected poetry published in the collection;Full Citation: The Colors of Nature: Culture, Identity, and the Natural WorldEdited by Alison H. Deming and Lauret E. Savoy (Milkweed Editions, 2011);Collaborative with faculty member at UA: Yes;
  • Zepeda, O., , T. M., Romero-Little, M., & , L. W. (2010). I'm Speaking English instead of my Culture. Routledge Press.
    More info
    ;Your Role: contributor;Full Citation: Farr, M., L. Seloni, & J. Song (eds.). 2010. Ethnolinguistic diversity and education: Language, literacy and culture. London: Routledge.;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: The article is the outcome of a collaborativegrant on Language Maintenance and youth;
  • Zepeda, O., McCarty, T., Romero-Little, M. E., & Warhol, L. (2009). Indigenous Youth as Language Policy Makers. Journal of Language, Identity and Education/Routledge.
    More info
    ;Your Role: co-author;Full Citation: McCarty, Teresa,M. E. Romero-Little; L.Warhol; O.Zepeda (2009)'Indigenous Youth as Language Policy Makers', Journal of Language, Identity and Education 8:5 291 - 306 ;Collaborative with graduate student: Yes;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: This chapter is based on a grant I had with Dr. McCarty & Romero-Little who are currently faculty at ASU.;
  • Zepeda, O. (2008). My Language Journey.
    More info
    ;Your Role: author;Full Citation: A Narrative Compass: Women's Writing Journeys. (2008) B.Hearn & R.Trite, eds. University of Illinois Press;

Journals/Publications

  • Zepeda, O., Romero-Little, M. E., McCarty, T., & Warhol, L. (2007). Language Policies in Practice: Implications from a National Study of Native American Language Shift. TESOL.
    More info
    ;Your Role: Fourth author.;Full Citation: Romero-little,M.E., McCarty,T.L.,Warhol,L. & Zepeda,O.(2007) Language Policies in Practice: Implications from a National Study of Native American Language Shift. TESOL Quarterly,41.607-618. ;Collaborative with graduate student: Yes;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: Romero-Little, T.McCarty are faculty at Arizona State University & L.Warhol is a graduate assitant. Our research project was housed at ASU's College of Education.;
  • Zepeda, O., & Romero-Little, M. (2006). Native American Youth Discourse on Language Shift and Retention: Ideological Cross-currents and Their Implications for Language Planning. Multilingual Matters.
    More info
    ;Your Role: Co-researcher and third author;Full Citation: McCarty, Teresa, Romero, M.E., Zepeda,O. (2006)Multilingual Matters;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: I am co-researcher with T.McCarty and M.E.Romero-Little on a project housed at ASU.;
  • Zepeda, O., & Romero-Little, M. (2006). Reclaiming Multilingual American: A lesson from Native American Youth. American Indian Quarterly.
    More info
    ;Your Role: Co-researcher and third author.;Full Citation: McCarty,Teresa, Romero, M.E., Zepeda,O (2006) American Indian Quarterly;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: I am a co-researcher with McCarty and Romero-Little, both are faculty at ASU's College of Education.;

Presentations

  • Zepeda, O. (2021, July). Weaving Language: Spirituality and Tradition Through Poetry. Cook Christian Ministrys Workshop. Sells, Arizona: Cook Christian Ministry Tempe, AZ.
    More info
    Workshop presenter on Christian spirituality, traditional O'odham beliefs and poetry.
  • Zepeda, O. (2017, March). Panel on Creativity. Tucson Festival of Books. Tucson: Tucson Festival of Books.
  • Zepeda, O. (2017, October). Panelist. University American Indian Studies conference. University of Arizona: American Indian Studies Department.
    More info
    Panelists of former heads and directors of AIS.
  • Zepeda, O. (2013, 2012-08-01). The Science of Storytelling: Indigenous Perspective in Environmental Change. Astronomical Association of the Pacific Rim. Tucson.
    More info
    a presentation on traditional understanding of climate and environmental change. My focus was on O'odham terminology for speaking of these phenomenon;Your Role: co- presenter;Invited: Yes;Interdisciplinary: Yes;Collaborative with faculty member at UA: Yes;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: Dr. Shelley Valdez, private consultantDr. Russane Low, Institute for Global Environmental Strategies;Type of Presentation: Professional Organization;
  • Zepeda, O. (2013, 2012-10-01). Legacies of the Tribal Languages of Arizona: Gifts or Responsibilities. The Simon Ortiz/ASU Labriola Center Lecture Series. ASU.
    More info
    ;Your Role: invited presenter;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: University;
  • Zepeda, O. (2013, 2012-10-01). Valuing the Legacy of Heritage Languages. Indigenous Languages Institute (ILI). Albuquerque, NM.
    More info
    ILI SymposiumValuing the Legacy of Heritage languagesThis presentation will consider the overall benefits of learning a heritage language. Research on the advantages of being bilingual or multilingual will be considered. Conclusion will emphasize that learning a heritage language does not impinge on the development of English language skills nor create setbacks for academic and professional achievement.;Your Role: Presenter;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Community Outreach;
  • Zepeda, O. (2012, 2012-08-01). The Science of Storytelling: Indigenous Perspective in Environmental Change. Astronomical Association of the Pacific Rim. Tucson.
    More info
    a presentation on traditional understanding of climate and environmental change. My focus was on O'odham terminology for speaking of these phenomenon;Your Role: co- presenter;Invited: Yes;Interdisciplinary: Yes;Collaborative with faculty member at UA: Yes;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: Dr. Shelley Valdez, private consultantDr. Russane Low, Institute for Global Environmental Strategies;Type of Presentation: Professional Organization;
  • Zepeda, O. (2012, 2012-10-01). Legacies of the Tribal Languages of Arizona: Gifts or Responsibilities. The Simon Ortiz/ASU Labriola Center Lecture Series. ASU.
    More info
    ;Your Role: invited presenter;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: University;
  • Zepeda, O. (2012, 2012-10-01). Valuing the Legacy of Heritage Languages. Indigenous Languages Institute (ILI). Albuquerque, NM.
    More info
    ILI SymposiumValuing the Legacy of Heritage languagesThis presentation will consider the overall benefits of learning a heritage language. Research on the advantages of being bilingual or multilingual will be considered. Conclusion will emphasize that learning a heritage language does not impinge on the development of English language skills nor create setbacks for academic and professional achievement.;Your Role: Presenter;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Community Outreach;
  • Zepeda, O. (2011, 2011-01-01). Poetics & Politics Reading. course related-community event. UA Poetry Center.
    More info
    A seminar taught by Dr. Larry Evers and Luci Tapahonso titled: "Poetics and Politics. I was invited to a public reading and present to their seminar. The seminar was offered jointly between AIS and English.;Invited: Yes;Interdisciplinary: Yes;Collaborative with faculty member in unit: Yes;Type of Presentation: University;
  • Zepeda, O. (2011, 2011-02-01). AILDI: A Special training model for Indigenous people. Conference. Uof Hawai'i, Manoa.
    More info
    PAPER TITLE: The American Indian Language Development Institute: A special training & education model for indigenous peopleDATE: Saturday, February 12TIME: 3:40-4:10ROOM: Koi Roomhttp://nflrc.hawaii.edu/ICLDC/2011/ICLDC2_program.pdf;Your Role: Presenter;Invited: Yes;Refereed: Yes;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: A half-day panel on presentation of programs & institutes that provide training to indigenous peoples on all areas of langauge teaching, research and documentation. Other prsenters included Leanne Hinton, Margaret Florey, Mary Linn, Sally Rice, Carol Genetti, Pat Shaw;Type of Presentation: Academic Conference;
  • Zepeda, O. (2011, 2011-02-01). University Scholars: Negotiating academic & community needs.. ICLDC-Int'l Conference on Language Documentation and Conservation-Field Study. University of Hawai'i Hilo.
    More info
    This panel was an extension of the ICLDC in Honolulu and was considered a "field experience" which included visiting the Hawiian language immersion schools and centers. Some of were were invited to be panelist as representatives of Indigenous university scholars.;Invited: Yes;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: panel organized by William Wilson (UHHilo);Type of Presentation: University;
  • Zepeda, O. (2011, 2011-05-01). Stabilizing Indigenous languages (SILS). Conference. U of New Mexico.
    More info
    ;Your Role: Lead presenter;Submitted: Yes;Collaborative with graduate student: Yes;Type of Presentation: Academic Conference/Workshop;
  • Zepeda, O. (2011, 2011-07-01). Waiting for a full Tohono O'odham language movement:. LSA. Boulder, CO.
    More info
    ;Your Role: presenter;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Academic Conference;
  • Zepeda, O. (2011, 2011-09-01). ANA Presentation-Administration for Native Americans. conference of ANA funded organizations. Prior Lake, MN.
    More info
    presentation on language immersion schools and language nests;Your Role: Lead presenter;Invited: Yes;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: presented with language immersion teachers from Hawaiian language programs;Type of Presentation: Government/Policy Audiences;
  • Zepeda, O. (2011, 2011-10-01). Poetry reading. RMMLA-Rocky Mountain Modern Language Association. Scottsdale, AZ.
    More info
    ;Your Role: reader;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Academic Conference;
  • Zepeda, O. (2011, 2011-11-01). AILDI:. conference. Albuquerque, NM.
    More info
    ;Your Role: presenter;Submitted: Yes;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: ;Type of Presentation: Professional Organization;
  • Zepeda, O. (2011, 2011-11-01). Borderland Symposium. meeting. Los Angeles,CA.
    More info
    http://www.lfla.org/event-detail/663/From-Tijuana-to-Gaza-to-Bosnia-Rethinking-Borders-in-a-21st-Century-World;Your Role: symposium participant and panelist for community presentation;Invited: Yes;Interdisciplinary: Yes;Type of Presentation: Invited/Plenary Speaker;
  • Zepeda, O. (2011, 2011-11-01). Claiming Ground: Panel for editors. conference. Tucson, AZ.
    More info
    Claiming Ground: Native Voices on the Practice and the Future of Native Writing is a workshop created through the support of The Tucson Pima Arts Council to help writers from Southern Arizona's Native American Communities understand through personal dialogue with successful literary figures, practical and pragmatic dimensions within the writing world. The discussions will range from inspiration, productivity, editorial concerns, new directions in writing and possibilities for sharing story in the 21st century. A diverse group of Native American writers have been asked to participate as panelist for this day-long workshop and share their insights with the attendees on various topics regarding the writing life.;Your Role: panelist;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Professional Organization;
  • Zepeda, O. (2011, 2011-11-01). Oasis-ITKI -Indigenous Traditional knowledge Institute. meeting/conf. Uof A.
    More info
    Invited to participate on an information panel for the ITKI/UNESCO visit to Tucson.;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Community Outreach;
  • Zepeda, O., Calabasa, E., Riggs, L., Davenport, A., & Nelson, J. F. (2010, 2010-05-01). Documenting American Indian Languages: Making it our own. Native American & Indigenous Studies Association. Westin La Paloma Tucson.
    More info
    ;Your Role: Moderator and organizer;Refereed: Yes;Collaborative with graduate student: Yes;Type of Presentation: Academic Conference;
  • Zepeda, O. (2009, 2009-03-01). Language and Identity. Assoc of Applied Linguistics. Denver, CO.
    More info
    ;Your Role: I was a responded to a large panel made of of educators from the University of Alaska and the Alaska Native Language Center;Interdisciplinary: Yes;Type of Presentation: Professional Organization;
  • Zepeda, O. (2009, 2009-04-01). Writing and Translation. Associated Writing Program Conference. Chicago.
    More info
    Panel consisted of authors who produced work in their Native languages. We responded to a set of questions on language and translation;Your Role: panelist;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Professional Organization;
  • Zepeda, O. (2009, 2009-05-01). T-Ni'ok c T-himdag â€. Stabilizing Indigenous Languages. ASU.
    More info
    I was invited to present as part of the acknowledgment for AILDI's 30th anniversary celebration in 2009. ;Invited: Yes;Interdisciplinary: Yes;Type of Presentation: Invited/Plenary Speaker;
  • Zepeda, O. (2009, 2009-09-01). Indigenous Language Recovery. Academy Village, Tucson.
    More info
    ;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Community Outreach;
  • Zepeda, O. (2008, 2008-09-01). a reading. Hassayampa Writing Program. Prescott,AZ.
    More info
    ;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Academic Conference;
  • Zepeda, O. (2008, 2008-10-01). : Indigenous Language Recovery & Maintenance: The Implications of U.S. National Policy and Funding Resources. Falmouth Institute. Palm Springs, CA.
    More info
    The Falmouth Institute provides training to employees and members of US tribes;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Invited/Plenary Speaker;
  • Zepeda, O. (2008, 2008-10-01). a reading. Washington DC.
    More info
    Reading and discussion at the National Museum of the American Indian;Invited: Yes;Interdisciplinary: Yes;Type of Presentation: Community Outreach;
  • Zepeda, O. (2008, 2008-11-01). AAA INVITED PRESIDENTIAL SESSION Session Title: “Advancing Indigenous Scholars and Scholarship in Anthropology Through Language and Culture Revitalization Research and Community Engagement: Creating a Better Kind of Anthropology. AAA conference. San Francisco.
    More info
    AAA INVITED PRESIDENTIAL SESSION Session Title: “Advancing Indigenous Scholars and Scholarship in Anthropology Through Language and Culture Revitalization Research and Community Engagement: Creating a Better Kind of AnthropologyOrganizers: Perry Gilmore (University of Arizona; Emerita, University of Alaska Fairbanks) and Ofelia Zepeda (University of Arizona) This session will explore spaces, research, projects and programs that interrupt and transform the “us studying them” hierarchical arrangement in anthropology by bringing, all too often marginalized and excluded, Indigenous knowledge, scholars and scholarship to the center. The widespread global grass roots research and development efforts of Indigenous communities in the area of language and culture revitalization has both defied the anthropologists' predictions of doom for moribund languages and introduced a dedicated new population of Indigenous scholars into the academy. The session will feature scholarly presentations of a cadre of new Indigenous scholars who have participated in programs at one of three universities - University of Arizona (UA), University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) and University of Hawaii Hilo (UHH). Each of these universities has had long time programs committed to Indigenous language documentation, revitalization, and Indigenous education program development. All three universities have followed the work of the others and have, as a result of their similar goals and research in this significant area of study, collaborated in various projects and programs. The scholarly papers will explore topics such as linguistic documentation, language learning and epistemology, the role of museums and museum education in language and culture revitalization, language pedagogy, curriculum development and assessment, the use of ethnography of communication in language revitalization, instructional strategies and tribal collaboration. These presentations will explore implications for the field of anthropology raising ethical, methodological and epistemological questions and insights. The infusion of this new scholarship into the academy generates a challenging era of exploration and redefinition of how anthropology gets done and how it is engaged with community, university and disciplinary needs and goals. Distinguished scholars from each of the universities represented, will discuss the range of challenges and contributions this new set of voices and this knowledge bring to our disciplinary dialogue in anthropology, linguistics and education. The models presented by these programs and the original and groundbreaking work of these scholars provide a rich set of guidelines and examples for advancing Indigenous scholars and scholarship in the anthropological engagement of research and education in the area of Indigenous language and culture revitalization. ;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Professional Organization;
  • Zepeda, O. (2008, 2008-11-01). The Multiple Voices of Jane Hill. AAA conference. SAn Francisco, CA.
    More info
    ;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Professional Organization;
  • Zepeda, O. (2008, 2009-02-01). Workshop on poetry writing. Transatlantic Voices- U.S. Native American literature/Community of Scholars. UCSB & CalPoly, CA.
    More info
    Workshops and lectures for university Native students and community members;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Community Outreach;
  • Zepeda, O., Tex, C., Joseph, K., & Hall, J. (2008, 2008-04-01). : Documenting Endangered Languages: Community based and with and Eye Towards Revitalization. Stabilizing Indigenous Languages. NAU Flagstaff.
    More info
    ;Your Role: organizer of session;Submitted: Yes;Interdisciplinary: Yes;Collaborative with graduate student: Yes;Type of Presentation: Academic Conference;
  • Zepeda, O. (2007, 2007-06-01). Language Journey. Native Voices Symposium. University of Arizona.
    More info
    12:00-1:00pmLUNCHTIME TALK with Ofelia ZepedaEDUCATION BLDG., Kiva Auditorium;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Academic Conference/Workshop;
  • Zepeda, O. (2007, 2007-06-01). O'odham Doesn't Rhyme, but it has Meter: Writing Poetry in an American Indian Language. Native Voices Symposium. University of Arizona.
    More info
    O'odham Doesn't Rhyme, But it Has Meter: Writing Poetry in an American Indian Language*Ofelia ZepedaEDUCATION BLDG, RM. 333This workshop will consider approaches towards writing poetry in American Indian languages. Participants will be asked to consider the poetic forms that already exist in their oral literature as a possible basis for generating contemporary poetry in their respective Native language. Participants will be required to produce writing using their Native language entirely or in appropriate spaces within their poem. Issues of moving between two or more languages when writing poetry will be considered.*Participants must be speakers of an American Indian language.;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Academic Conference/Workshop;
  • Zepeda, O. (2006, 2006-02-01). More than Just Words: The Native American Languages Act. Invited Talk-UCSB. Santa Barbara, CA.
    More info
    ;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: University;
  • Zepeda, O. (2006, 2006-03-01). Language & Technology: O'odham CD example. All Yuman Language Summit. Yuma, AZ.
    More info
    ;Invited: Yes;Interdisciplinary: Yes;Type of Presentation: Community Outreach;
  • Zepeda, O. (2006, 2006-04-01). Arizona Book Festival,. Arizona Book Fesitval. Phoenix, AZ.
    More info
    ;Your Role: Panelist;Submitted: Yes;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: Panel presentation, Susan Lang (Yavpai College),Chair;Type of Presentation: Professional Organization;
  • Zepeda, O. (2006, 2006-04-01). National Poetry Month, My Favorite Poem Readings. Barnes & Noble Bookstore.
    More info
    ;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Community Outreach;
  • Zepeda, O. (2006, 2006-05-01). From Oral Stories to Poetry. Northland Pioneer College, Showlow,AZ.
    More info
    ;Type of Presentation: Community Outreach;
  • Zepeda, O. (2006, 2006-05-01). People's Poetry Gathering/City Lore. The People's Poetry Gathering/City Lore. New York City.
    More info
    ;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Professional Organization;
  • Zepeda, O. (2006, 2006-05-01). Poetry of Native American Women. People's Poetry Gathering/City Lore. City University, New York.
    More info
    ;Invited: Yes;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: Co presenter with poet, Nora Marks Dauenhauer;Type of Presentation: Professional Organization;
  • Zepeda, O. (2006, 2006-05-01). Stones of Civilization, a reading. City Lore/Poetry for the People. United Nations, New York.
    More info
    ;Invited: Yes;Type of Presentation: Professional Organization;
  • Zepeda, O. (2006, 2006-11-01). The Necessary Intersection of Documentation and Revitalization of Endangered Languages. American Anthropological Association. San Jose, CA.
    More info
    ;Submitted: Yes;Type of Presentation: Academic Conference;
  • Zepeda, O., & Siquieros, M. R. (2006, 2006-03-01). AILDI Experience. All Yuman Language Summit. Yuma, AZ.
    More info
    ;Invited: Yes;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: MS Regina Siquieros is the coordinator of AILDI;Type of Presentation: Community Outreach;
  • Zepeda, O., & Siquieros, M. R. (2006, 2006-09-01). The AILDI Experience. Gila River Indian Education Department Outreach. Gila River Indian Community.
    More info
    ;Your Role: Director of AILDI, and co-presenter;Invited: Yes;Interdisciplinary: Yes;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: Ms.Regina Siquieros is the Coordinator of AILDI (The American Indian Language Development Institute)at UA;Type of Presentation: Community Outreach;
  • Zepeda, O., & Wyman, L. (2006, 2006-11-01). “Critical Intersections and Dangerous Issues: Considering Indigenous Youth in Language Shift and Language Maintenance/Revitalization Efforts. American Anthropological Association. San Jose, CA.
    More info
    ;Your Role: Co-chair of panel;Refereed: Yes;Interdisciplinary: Yes;Collaborative with faculty member at UA: Yes;Type of Presentation: Academic Conference;
  • Zepeda, O., Leonard, B. D., & UAF, . (2006, 2006-11-01). Open Forum on Committee on Indigenous Education. American Anthropological Association. San Jose, CA.
    More info
    ;Your Role: I am the chair of the Committee on Indigenous Education under the Council of Antropology and Education, Ms. Leonard is co-chair;Submitted: Yes;Other collaborative: Yes;Specify other collaborative: MS. Leonard is a Doctoral candidate at UA Fairbanks;Type of Presentation: Academic Conference;

Creative Productions

  • Zepeda, O. (2017. Reading and talk with Natalie Diaz. Tucson Poetry Festival. Tucson, AZ: Tucson Poetry Festival.

Creative Performances

  • Zepeda, O. (2017. Poetry reading. Respecting Place Conference. San Ana Pueblo, Albuquerque, NM: The MICA Group.
    More info
    Poetry Reading.
  • Zepeda, O. (2017. Poetry reading. Thinking Its Presence conference. UA Poetry Center: UA Poetry Center.
    More info
    A reading as part of the Thinking Its Presence conference.
  • Zepeda, O. (2016. Poetry Reading and Poetry film debut. National Cowboy Poetry Conference. Elko,NV: National Cowboy Poetry Conference-Folklife Center.
    More info
    Poetry reading and debut of film, O'odham Dances, a part of the moving verse project hosted by the Folklife Center.
  • Zepeda, O. (2016. Reading and talk. Women Writing the West Conference. Tucson: Women Writing the West Conference.
    More info
    Reading and talk

Others

  • Zepeda, O., & Zepeda, O. (2010). S-wa'us I:bei/Breathing Moisture in a Desert Place.
    More info
    ;Your Role: author;Full Citation: O.Zepeda (2010). Lawrence Clark Powell Lecture. Pima County Public Library Southwest Literature Project.;Type of Publication: limited printing-keepsake essay;
  • Zepeda, O. (2008). xxxx.
    More info
    ;Full Citation: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx;Type of Publication: xxx;
  • Zepeda, O. (2006). Wind.
    More info
    ;Full Citation: Bedrock: Writers on the Wonders of Geology, Laura E. Savoy et al editors, San Antonio: Trinity University Press;Type of Publication: poem;

 Edit my profile

UA Profiles | Home

University Information Security and Privacy

© 2025 The Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of The University of Arizona.