History of The Pecan Grove Review
The Pecan Grove Review is St. Mary’s University’s literary magazine that is printed every Spring semester. In 1995, Sister Ann Semel asked Professor Diane Gonzales Bertrand who was teaching a creative writing class at the time, to help create a literary magazine. Sister Ann and Professor Bertrand wanted to give students an opportunity to experience the publishing process. Professor Bertrand assembled an editorial board of quiet students who had few obligations outside of school. She wanted these students to feel like they were part of something, and the result was a team of students who excitedly put together the first issue of The Pecan Grove Review which was printed in 1996. Students chose the name because it referred to an area on campus, and the word ‘review’ made the publication sound more professional. The earliest issues of the PGR were printed on Xerox machines. The process of working on the magazine was a real “labor of love” according to Professor Bertrand.
Lynnette Gonzales was one of the quiet students recruited by Professor Bertrand for the editorial board. Lynnette along with about 10 other students reviewed poetry, essays, and short stories written by students, faculty, staff, and alumni. The editorial board announced the call for submissions by posting ads on bulletin boards around campus, handing out flyers, and sharing the information with faculty. Once they received enough submissions, they gathered at a picnic table, put them in piles, and judged them without bias. The authors’ names were printed on a separate cover sheet so the board had no idea who wrote what—they would later find out that Professor Bertrand had submitted several pieces. Although working on the Pecan Grove Review was a huge workload, it was a fun and worthwhile endeavor. Aside from the practical experience, the students enjoyed reflecting on the submissions. They discussed how the pieces affected them, and they were continually surprised when they later found out the identities of the authors. The student editors learned not to judge their peers and professors based on their limited interactions with them.
Lynette Gonzales, who was recruited by Professor Bertrand for a second time during grad school, credits the Pecan Grove Review for giving her a start in her professional career and helping her to come out of her shell. She was more prepared for grad school, group work, and meeting deadlines. St. Mary’s was nurturing when it came to creativity, and the professors were so attentive that it made it impossible for the quiet students to hide. The Pecan Grove Review is a reflection of this community that continues to inspire writers. Lynnette Gonzales has taught many Communications courses at St. Mary’s University since 2007 and keeps in touch with her former professors and classmates. She remains appreciative of Professor Bertrand’s guidance and the experience of publishing the Pecan Grove Review.
Professor Bertrand was the faculty advisor for 20 years. Since her retirement, Dr. Romo, Dr. Doty, and currently Dr. Maloney, have served as advisors.