Victoria Lopez is a writer, poet, and educator passionate about inspiring individuality and fostering creative exploration. As the Executive Director and Founder of Unfolded: Poetry Project, she has been a driving force in creating accessible spaces for self-expression and connection through poetry in the Rio Grande Valley and beyond. Appointed as the 2022 and 2025 City of McAllen Poet Laureate, Victoria is recognized for her contributions to the literary arts and her commitment to uplifting diverse voices. Her debut novel, Fire in May (2016), and her forthcoming poetry collection (2025) reflect her dedication to storytelling and authenticity. Victoria is also known for her Poetry on Demand performances—a live demonstration using her typewriter to write personalized poems on the spot. This practice underscores her belief that writing is both process and presence: a draft, a practice, and a shared human connection.Through Unfolded: Poetry Project, Victoria leads free workshops, writing sessions, and open mics that nurture self-discovery, artistic growth, and community care. She is deeply committed to mentoring writers and ensuring that every voice has a platform to be heard. 

Joshua Burton is a poet and educator from Houston, TX and received his MFA in poetry at Syracuse University. He is a 2019 Tin House Winter Workshop Scholar and a 2023 Elizabeth George Foundation grant recipient. His work can be found in Gulf Coast, The Rumpus, TriQuarterly, Black Warrior Review, and Indiana Review. His chapbook Fracture Anthology is out with Ethel Press and his debut poetry collection Grace Engine is out with the University of Wisconsin Press.