Melissa Fitch, Ph.D: University Distinguished Professor, Department of Spanish and Portuguese and Latin American Cultural Studies, University of Arizona; Global Trekker
Wednesday, April 1, 2026, 3:00-4:00 pm, Koffler Great Room at ASA and zoom
Dr. Melissa Fitch will explain that the metaphor of life as a road or journey appears across cultures worldwide, making it an ideal framework for a presentation focused on walking. She will discuss how walking has long been used by storytellers, health professionals, and artists to express ideas ranging from spiritual growth and artistic inspiration to physical and mental wellness. At the same time, it has served as a way to understand experiences such as war, economic hardship, and even the simple joy of play. Her presentation will include five lessons learned on three global treks in Latin America, Europe, and Asia taken in 2023, 2024 and 2025. These will be things learned from fellow pilgrims from around the world, lessons that are heartfelt, often humorous, and ultimately uplifting.