Grades 6-12; Boarding 8-12

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Lizabel Monica, Teacher of Spanish

Dr. Lizabel Monica’s journey is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and passion that have defined her life and career. Born in Cuba, Dr. Monica, who is in her second year at Pennington, was deeply involved in the country’s ideological and literary movements and carved a unique space for herself in a tightly controlled environment. Her work in journalism and creative writing not only challenged the status quo, but also offered a voice to those who dared to question it.

Her early years were marked by involvement in a nomadic literary group, an alternative circle not sanctioned by the government. This group, composed of like-minded individuals, became a generation of writers who pushed the boundaries of Cuban literature. They felt empowered within their own space despite knowing that the authorities were paying attention. "We were young and didn’t give much thought to the consequences," Dr. Monica recalls, highlighting the fearless spirit that defined her youth.

Dr. Monica’s contributions to journalism, often under the pseudonym Patricia Fontanar, were crucial in documenting the reality of life in Cuba. Her historical reports covered cultural events, offering an intellectual perspective on the shifting landscape. However, the risks were significant. As she became more prominent, her work drew the attention of security agents. Friends and colleagues were frequently arrested, sometimes three times a week(!), as the government sought to silence them through intimidation. Despite the dangers, Dr. Monica continued her work until the situation became untenable. After receiving a special exit permit from Cuba in order to give talks at some U.S. colleges and universities, Dr. Monica applied to American doctoral programs while she was in the United States and was accepted to Princeton University. However, her request to leave Cuba once again to pursue her doctorate was denied. For this reason, Dr. Monica didn’t return to Cuba, a decision that would become even more heart-wrenching when her father, who had been ill, suddenly died. The brutal irony was that these travel restrictions would be lifted only a few years later. 

After leaving Cuba, Dr. Monica’s passion for literature and education did not wane. She completed a master’s degree in Caribbean literature and a PhD in Latin American Studies at Princeton University. Her dissertation, “Literatura Por Otros Medios: Tecnología Digital y Campo Literario en la Cuba Contemporánea,” explored the impact of digital technology on Cuban literature, visual arts, and music. This work is a significant contribution to understanding how a new generation of Cuban artists and writers use technology to reach a broader audience, even as the government attempts to control information.

Dr. Monica also produces literary works, including a poetry collection with a publisher in Texas as well as an upcoming novel. Entitled Tim sin Tina, the book intertwines three stories connected by the elusive character, Tina. Set in Cuba, the novel, which takes place in the years between 2000 and the present, reflects the complexities of Cuban life and culture. Although not autobiographical, the novel illustrates Monica's connection to Cuba, even as she navigates the challenges of living away from home.

In addition to her literary achievements, Dr. Monica enjoys her role as a teacher. She has taught advanced Spanish courses at Princeton University and The Lawrenceville School, sharing her knowledge and passion with students for over five years. At Pennington, she is teaching Spanish III and IV Honors, often incorporating art and creativity into her teaching. Her students learn not only the language, but also how to critique art, conduct research, and engage with cultural texts critically.

Dr. Monica’s commitment to empowering the next generation extends beyond the classroom. In 2018, she co-founded a feminist organization in Cuba with musician Damarys Benavides. This community project focuses on working with vulnerable children in Havana, particularly those whose parents are or have been imprisoned. Through music and poetry, the organization teaches literacy, rhyme schemes, and different ways of communication, helping these children to build self-esteem and to envision a future beyond their current circumstances.

Dr. Monica is not only part of Pennington’s boarding family, her own family is very much a part of Pennington, too. Her partner, Mr. Denis, is a member of the history department, and their daughter Lucy is a sixth-grader in Princeton. 

As Dr. Monica continues to write and teach, her influence remains profound. She is now considering a new direction, aiming to write in English and perhaps for bilingual readers. She is currently brainstorming her next literary project, with plans to join a writing group with Ms. Sarah Sensenig, Rider University music instructor and wife of Pennington music teacher Dr. Dolan. 

Despite the challenges and the risks she has faced, Dr. Monica’s story is a pursuit of truth and justice through the power of words; together with her students, we all look forward to hearing what she has to say next!