KATATRA VASQUEZ

Looking for an engaging, dynamic speaker to bring history to life? Whether it’s for a special event, educational program, or community gathering, Katatra delivers engaging interactive presentations that uncover hidden stories of America’s Secret City and beyond.  Ready to book an unforgettable experience?  Please complete the Speaker Request Form below today!

THE POWER OF HOPE: HISTORY'S UNSEEN CONNECTIONS-

This presentation focuses on recognizing and acknowledging the often-overlooked contributions of African Americans to the Manhattan Project during World War II. It intertwines personal stories, historical facts, and motivational elements to highlight the importance of including diverse perspectives in the narrative of American history. The author draws connections between their own experiences, the historical context of Oak Ridge's role in the Manhattan Project, and the broader theme of hope as a unifying force that transcends racial and cultural barriers. This narrative aims to inspire a more inclusive understanding of history and emphasizes the transformative power of hope. Great for Adult Audiences.  Length 30 minutes.

WELCOME? WHY REPRESENTATION IN OUR AMERICAN SPACES MATTER
The presentation focuses on the importance of inclusive historical representation in the spaces we live in to foster a sense of belonging.  Katatra Vasquez, an author and mom, shares her experiences exploring the Secret City of Oak Ridge's history, particularly its impact during the Atomic Age.  Highlighting the significance of seeing oneself in history, she emphasizes the need for diverse historical representation in especially historic cities. Her book, "Atomic Hope Our Words and Our Spaces Oak Ridge, Tennessee,"  and Curated tours aims to fill this gap, offering a more inclusive narrative that specifically connects the often overlooked contributions of Black People to the historic innovation valley of Oak Ridge, Tennessee.  Great for Audiences Adult Audiences. Length 20 minutes.

SISTER HOPE: THE LEGACY OF THE INVISIBLE WOMAN IN THE SECRET CITY -

This motivational presentation is a tribute to the unsung African American women who played a pivotal role in building the Secret City of Oak Ridge during the World War II Manhattan Project. Author Historian Katatra Vasquez emphasizes their bravery, resilience, and the transformative impact they had despite facing societal invisibility and discrimination. She underscores the importance of recognizing and honoring these women, who, through hope and determination, significantly contributed to a crucial chapter in American history. The presentation is a call to remember and celebrate their legacy, serving as a beacon of inspiration and strength. Great for Audiences Ages 10 and Up.  Length 20 minutes

LEADING WITH HOPE" HISTORY, STEM AND YOU -

This presentation focuses on the often overlooked African American contributions to Oak Ridge's Manhattan Project.  Author Katatra Vasquez shares her journey to understanding and highlighting these untold stories, driven by the realization many African America narratives were missing from the interpretation of this great history. She emphasizes the importance of inclusive storytelling and how, as a mother and author, she was inspired to write books and curate tours that help fill this gap in history, offering a more complete and diverse perspective of the Oak Ridge Secret Cities past. Her work showcases the courage and hope of those who helped shape a significant part of American history. Great for Audiences ages 7 and up.  Time 20 minutes.

AUTHOR SCHOOL VISITS-PRESENTATIONS AND WORKSHOPS 

Atomic Hope-

Award-winning author Katatra Vasquez tailors her presentations for each grade level. She begins each talk by describing what led her to becoming an author and historian. Each talk focuses on one of her chosen books. Josie’s Hope: A Secret City Revealed or Atomic Hope: Our Words and Our Spaces, Oak Ridge, Tennessee and/ or Making a Little Red Wagon.  She will read book excerpts and share historical author insights of the chosen book. Her presentation always ends with Q&A and optional book signing/personalization. Great for Elementary and Middle School Students,1-8th Grade, Length: 20 minutes.

Maw Ann’s Peach Pie Surprise- The Science of History

In this workshop, Author, Katatra Vasquez, reads excerpts from her book Josie’s Hope: A Secret City Revealed, where the main character’s mother is famous for her peach pies.  Connecting History and Science, she leads students through experiment while explaining the science of behind Maw Ann recipe for peach pie.  This experiment can be a little messy as it includes her surprise ingredients baking soda and vinegar. Students will have the option to tell or write about their experiences. Great for small groups, grades 1-5. Please keep workshops under 25 students. Length 45 minutes. Please note that participants are responsible for covering the costs associated with materials used in the workshop.

I am Brave Like Josie 

In this workshop, Author, Katatra Vasquez delves into "Josie's Hope: A Secret City Revealed," fostering curiosity, confidence, and adventure. The session includes reading excerpts from the book, engaging students with the narrative and characters. Additionally, it features coloring and activity pages, allowing students to creatively express their interpretations and connect with the story's themes of the brave and hopeful Josie. This approach not only enhances their understanding of history but also encourages active participation and imaginative exploration. Great for grade K-3 students. Please Keep Workshops under 25 students.   Length 30 minutes. Please note that participants are responsible for covering the costs associated with materials used in this workshop.

Leading With Hope: History, STEM and YOU

In this workshop Author Katatra Vasquez, will provide a simplified  historical overview of the World War II Oak Ridge, Tennessee Manhattan Project era. Using her book "Atomic Hope Our Words and Our Spaces Oak Ridge, Tennessee" cultural travel activity guide , students will engage in a written thought provoking STEM activity that connects them to the story of a woman who bravely ventured into the unknown Secret City, Oak Ridge. This interactive session encourages students to embrace hope and leadership in times of global change, similar to the spirit of the Manhattan Project. Through the activity, they are encourage to create ideas of  modern technologies that could have aided the woman's journey, inspiring them to be the hopeful leaders in future world-changing events. Great for middle school students. Please Keep workshops under 25 students. Length Approximately 30 minutes. Please note that participants are responsible for covering the costs associated with materials used in this workshop.