For more than 30 years, the student-run bilingual literary journal Hispanic Culture Review (HCR) at George Mason University has published poetry, essays, and narratives in both Spanish and English and highlighted photography and visual art. Now it is finally getting the recognition it deserves.
HCR has been awarded a 2024 National Magazine Pacemaker Award by the Associated Collegiate Press (ACP). Volition, George Mason’s undergraduate literary and arts journal, was named a finalist in the same category.
ACP has awarded the preeminent recognition in student journalism, unofficially known as the “Student Pulitzer,” to spotlight excellence in college media since 1927.
HCR’s mission is to bridge communication gaps and strengthen cultural bonds between English- and Spanish-speaking peoples by publishing original works from diverse creators around the world.
Since the first issue of Volition in fall of 2006 (formerly known as Apathy), the publication’s mission has been to unite George Mason’s artistic community and serve as a showcase for undergraduate creativity. Publishing original poetry, prose, and visual art, Volition seeks to elevate emerging artists and writers.
Gary Lundgren, coordinator of the Pacemaker competition, noted the quality of the winning student magazines rivals those produced by professionals. “The creativity displayed in the literary arts magazines is incredible — the unique formats and creative designs make the magazines themselves a work of art,” he said.
For Valeria Veliz-Vargas, HCR’s editor-in-chief, the award was welcome news. “Getting the news about the Pacemaker award was super exciting,” said Veliz-Vargas, who worked on the journal for three years. “It goes to show that the work HCR produces is valuable and seen.”
Veliz-Vargas, who is double majoring in Spanish and communication with a concentration in public relations, said she first heard about the journal in her SPAN 315 Spanish in Context for Heritage Speakers class. “It caught my attention because it blends the two majors I’m studying and blends language and culture with writing and literature.”
HCR and Volition faculty advisor Jason Hartsel in George Mason’s Office of Student Media said he was thrilled to see the two journals recognized nationally. “Each issue [of the journals] is the culmination of many hours of hard work, creativity, and hands-on learning by our talented students, and this award will no doubt inspire future teams to leave behind their own legacy of distinction.”
Student Media comprises more than 10 student-run media groups that publish original content online and in print, enabling students hone career-related skills in publishing and broadcasting. Those outlets include the university’s official student newspaper, radio station, and television network, as well as seven journals/magazines, a sports broadcasting team, and student chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.
Veliz-Vargas said working on HCR definitely enhanced her time at George Mason, and she gained a lot of experience from her leadership role. “I learned how to delegate and lead a team while managing hard deadlines, planning events, and promoting the publication both on and off campus,” she said. “It has motivated me into exploring career paths that will allow me to continue doing this kind of work.”
