We hosted 4 Digital Fridays in 2023 where HASTAC Scholars and esteemed speakers came together from diverse disciplines, offering insightful presentations that spanned the spectrum of technology, the arts, humanities, and sciences. The vibrancy and depth of these discussions not only enriched our community but also underscored the groundbreaking work being undertaken by scholars across the globe. Here is a glimpse at the 2023 Digital Fridays;
Session 1: March 31, 2023
Exploring a Venesporic Lesbian Utopia in Fina Torres’ Liz in September by Waleska Solórzano
Waleska examines the portrayal of a lesbian utopia against the backdrop of Venezuela’s socio-political landscape, through the lens of Fina Torres’ film. She holds a Master’s in Philosophy from George Mason University, researching the transformative potential of aesthetic practices and utopian thought within the Venezuelan diaspora.
The Pleasures and Perils of Generative AI Imagery by Ian G. Williams
Ian reflects on the emergence of AI-generated imagery, exploring its impact on creativity and digital ethics. As a Ph.D. student in Social Welfare at CUNY, Ian’s work intersects technology, social theory, and human services.
Session 2: April 28, 2023
Creating the Borderlands Folklore Digital Archive by Paulina Hernández-Trejo
Paulina discusses the development of a digital archive to preserve the rich folklore of the U.S./Mexican Borderlands. As an MA English student, her work bridges literary analysis with digital humanities.
Decolonizing the Syllabus by Urmi Parekh
Urmi shares her journey in reevaluating the diversity and inclusivity of academic syllabi. As a Ph.D. student, her focus lies in digital humanities and pedagogical reform.
“Nobody But Me Was Going to Pick My ‘Image’” by Joshua Goodstein
Joshua explores the agency of actresses within the Hollywood studio system, highlighting the contrasting experiences of Barbara Stanwyck and Lena Horne. His research encompasses movie musicals, star studies, and queer theory.
Session 3: November 17
This Bridge Called Cyberspace: Toward a Latinx Digital Public Plaza by Lisa Hernandez
Lisa investigates the role of digital spaces in fostering Chicana feminist voices and identity. With a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature, her work focuses on Chicana digital projects and mestiza border feminism.
Exploring National Identity in the Republic of Moldova through Digital Storytelling by Rebecca Stuch
Rebecca examines digital storytelling as a means of navigating national identity in Moldova. A Ph.D. student in Innovation in Global Development, her research interests include digital narratives and societal innovation.
Session 4: December 1
Reimagining Liminal Embodiment Through Exergames by Haoran Chang
Haoran discusses the intersection of virtual reality and physical wellness, leveraging Chinese Traditional Medicine philosophy. As a Ph.D. student in Cinema and Media Studies, his work explores the boundary between the virtual and the real.
Re-defining Journalism as a Social Responsibility by Abby Cole
Abby addresses the evolving role of journalism in society, advocating for a human-centered approach to technology and media. Her research spans digital culture studies, emerging media, and social justice.
Odds and Ends: An Autoethnographic Exploration of Obsidian for Doctoral Student Writing by Ian G. Williams
Ian returns to offer an autoethnographic account of using Obsidian in doctoral research, blending insights on social policy, technology, and education.
These sessions not only provide a platform for intellectual exchange but also demonstrate the breadth and diversity of research within the HASTAC Scholars community.