Introducing Catherine Irwin

Abridged Introductory Script for Internal or External Events

I am pleased to introduce First Spouse Catherine Irwin, External Ambassador of LMU, Chair and Professor of English at the University of La Verne, and an accomplished scholar of poetry, performance, and intersectional literature. 

A Los Angeles native and daughter of Filipino immigrants, Cathy holds degrees from UC Berkeley and USC. Her work focuses on contemporary American poetry, gender and sexuality studies, and marginalized voices in literature and performance. As LMU’s first spouse, Dr. Irwin is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, empowering academic community.

Full Introductory Script for External Events

I am pleased to introduce First Spouse Catherine Irwin, External Ambassador of LMU, Chair and Professor of English at the University of La Verne, and an accomplished scholar of poetry, performance, and intersectional literature. 

Cathy has served as a faculty member at University of La Verne since 2006. A dedicated scholar and educator, Dr. Irwin brings a wealth of academic experience and interdisciplinary expertise to her teaching and research, including leadership as advisor and coordinator of the university’s Gender and Sexuality Studies minor.

Dr. Irwin has taught courses in a variety of disciplines, including writing, English, and Asian American studies, with a particular focus on contemporary American literature, ethnic women’s literature, and gender and sexuality studies. Her graduate research explored the intersections between contemporary American poetry and theatrical performance—particularly through dramatic monologues, performance art, and oral histories rooted in the experiences of historically marginalized communities.

Her current scholarly interests explore contemporary American poetry, 1970s liberation movements, and the intersections of race, ethnicity, and gender and sexuality studies. She is the author of Twice Orphaned: Voices from the Children’s Village of Manzanar, and her work has been featured in a range of anthologies and publications, including Contemporary Women’s Writing and Women’s Studies:  An Interdisciplinary Journal.

As the first spouse at LMU, Dr. Irwin brings her passion for education, equity, and cultural inquiry to the campus community. She is committed to advancing inclusive dialogue and fostering a vibrant academic environment that champions diversity, creativity, and empowerment.