Past Conferences
Impact Zones and Liminal Spaces: The Culture and History of Surfing
April 26-28, 2019
The conference brought together scholars from all backgrounds and disciplines – humanities, social and natural sciences, cultural studies, ethnic studies, sports studies, etc. in a comprehensive examination of the phenomenon we call surfing. We welcomed graduate and undergraduate students, writers, journalists, community activists, professional and casual surfers who joined us in the celebration of, and critical reflection upon, the culture and history of surfing. Keynote speakers were given by Krista Comer (Professor of English at Rice University and Affiliated Scholar of Stanford’s Lane Center for the American West, contributing research to the California Coastal Commission Project) and Cori Schumacher (Councilwoman in the City of Carlsbad, California, a three-time world longboard surfing champion, international activist, author, and co-founder of The Inspire Initiative).
