You’re a second-generation Mexican-American, unable to fit-in with either your native or dominant culture in your society. A lot of lessons have been learned from the quest for success and acceptance, lessons that form a patchwork of life and love and illustrate a paradigm for success, a strategy for adapting to the challenges of the modern world.

Physical Education Division Chair/Instructor David Diaz is that individual, and he chronicles his experiences in his first, new book, titled The White Tortilla: Reflections of a Second-Generation Mexican-American. The title comes from what Diaz calls “White Tortillas,” Americans who are caught in a “purgatory of ambivalence” and have trouble fitting in. Diaz’s book has plenty of consejo (advice) for all who seek success in a diverse America.

The White Tortilla supports a perpetual endowment that Diaz set up to honor his father, the Norberto G. Diaz Scholarship Fund. Before September 3, Diaz will give away the first 150 copies of his book. Tax-deductible donations to the scholarship fund are welcome in exchange for each copy. After September 3, the book can be ordered online. All future proceeds will go to the scholarship fund.

The scholarship fund needs a minimum of $5,000 before funds are distributed. Scholarship recipients must be the first generation of their family to attend college, must have a 3.0 GPA and must show financial need.

A reading of The White Tortilla has been scheduled at 6 p.m. on September 3 in the Excellent Experience Gallery in San Luis Obispo, as a part of a celebration of Hispanic culture. The event also features an exhibit by Richard Lopez, titled “Art After Dark.“

To order a copy of The White Tortilla before September 3, email Vicki Simonson in Athletics at vsimonso@cuesta.edu.