- Scholarly Sessions
Five themed blocks showcased research spanning Fantasy & Comics , Female Fan Power! , and more. Presenters included undergraduates, graduate students, independent scholars, and faculty, reflecting the conference’s commitment to cross‑disciplinary exchange. - Graduate‑Student Roundtable & Reception
Emerging scholars shared insights into their work, followed by an informal gathering that fostered networking and collaboration. - Firebrand Books Celebration
Panels honored titles published by the iconic LGBTQIA+ press and explored the press’s lasting cultural impact. The celebration culminated in a keynote address, “In the Pages of Resistance: Queer and Trans Stories Are Our Superpower. ”
Pippi to Ripley 7 Celebrated Gender & Sexuality in Popular Culture
By Department of English, June 4, 2025
The seventh edition of Pippi to Ripley delivered two full days of lively scholarship, creativity, and community—all centered on Gender and Sexuality in Popular Culture.
Highlights
Why It Mattered
Originally founded as “guerilla academe” by Professor Katharine Kittredge and her students, Pippi to Ripley has always blurred boundaries between academia and the wider community. This edition stayed true to that vision, welcoming more than 70 presenters who examined everything from Rick and Morty to Bollywood housewives, YA fiction, and video‑game fashion—demonstrating once again that critical conversations about gender and sexuality thrive in every corner of popular culture.
Thank You!
Since 2011, Pippi to Ripley has been a unique academic conference bringing together the work of scholars, graduate students, librarians, high school teachers and undergraduates. This year's event was co-sponsored by the School of the Humanities and Sciences, the Department of Literatures in English, The Department of Gender and Women's Studies, and the IC LGBT Center.
A heartfelt thank‑you to all presenters, coordinators, and attendees for making Pippi to Ripley 7 a vibrant success!