Global StorytellingLanguages, Literatures & CulturesSpanish

Mirna Trauger

Associate Professor, Spanish
Mirna  Trauger
Global StorytellingLanguages, Literatures & CulturesSpanish

Mirna Trauger

Associate Professor, Spanish

Education

• Ph.D. in Spanish (Hispanic Caribbean Literature), Rutgers University, 2014. Dissertation titled: “En Los Umbrales de la Tardomodernidad: Transformaciones Discursivas en Cinco Novelas del Caribe Insular”.
• M.A. in Spanish, Rutgers University, 1996
• B.A. in Spanish/French, Moravian College, 1994

Teaching Interests

As an immigrant to the United States and a speaker of four languages, I believe language learning is the ultimate tool for building bridges. In my courses I emphasize the profound benefits of acquiring a second language and its vital role in helping students understand and actively participate in our multicultural society and globalized world. My teaching aligns closely with the college’s mission to develop independent critical thinkers committed to the diversity of the human experience. I create learning experiences that encourage evaluative, creative, and innovative thinking, while inviting students to reflect on their own cultural practices as they explore new perspectives. At the heart of my philosophy is an inviting, safe, and inclusive classroom environment. I deliberately minimize the anxiety often associated with language learning and foster a strong sense of community from the first day. By applying Universal Design for Learning principles, I ensure students of all learning styles have equal opportunities to succeed. My courses also emphasize transferable skills such as communication, critical thinking, cultural awareness, teamwork, and adaptability. Through the thoughtful integration of Artificial Intelligence, I prepare students to use emerging technologies responsibly to enhance their language learning and thrive in a tech-driven world.

Research and Scholarship

My scholarly work spans the 20th and 21st centuries. I have a particular focus on disability studies and health humanities, where I examine Hispanic literary narratives that portray chronic illness, trauma, and the healing power of “writing as medicine.” I also work in film and media studies, exploring Latin American cinema, regional melodramas, and cinematic representations of national trauma.

Selected Publications & Presentations:
• “Tácticas de sobrevivencia: Puga y Posada narran la enfermedad.” Latin American Literary Review, vol. 51, no. 103, 2024, pp. 137.
• “The Ottomans Conquer Latin America: The Rise of Turkish Melodramas.” Hispanic Review, Vol. 99, 2023.
• “Trauma nacional y duelo en el cine dominicano del siglo XXI.” Hispanic Journal, Vol. 42, 2021.
• “Cine, memoria y cicatrización nacional.” Congreso Internacional de Literatura y Estudios Hispánicos, 2025.
• Translation: Mujeres poetas de Panamá 1980-2025, Casasola Editores, 2025.

  • Communication in Spanish II
  • Elementary Arabic I
  • Elementary Arabic II
  • Hispanic Languages & Cultures
  • Spanish Internship - Tillman House
  • Spanish Internship: Tillman House
  • Special Topic: Arab Women in Film
  • Texts & Contexts
  • The Hispanic World Today

  • Rising Scholar Award. Muhlenberg College, 2023
  • Muhlenberg Influencer Award, 2024.
  • Bridge Builder Award, 2010, 2015, 2020.

Global Storytelling

Languages, Literatures & Cultures