Ava Ladner

Ava Ladner, Ph.D. graduated from the Department of American Studies in 2020.  Prior to beginning her studies at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, she earned a Masters in Writing from the University of Southern California and a Masters in Sports Studies and Physical Education from the University of Georgia, where she looked at antitrust collusion in the National Football League.  Ava has worked in libraries at the University of Georgia, University of Mississippi, and Hawaiʻi Pacific University.  She has also taught at Hawaiʻi Tokai International College.  Her dissertation is focused on the influence of Southern (American) culture and its influence throughout the US, using the sport of NASCAR as a conduit and lens for the delivery of the messages. Ava has also concentrated on Transgender Studies, developing, implementing, and teaching the first course at UH that is solely dedicated to the topic. She has taught Contemporary American Issues, Early US History in the History, and Film Studies.  When she finds free time, Ava enjoys running, pilates, and spending time with her two dogs.