David Kamper

David Kamper is a Professor of American Indian Studies at San Diego State University (SDSU). He serves as Associate Director and co-founder of the Center for Skateboarding, Action Sports, and Social Change, and co-founder of the Surf/Skate Studies Collaborative at SDSU. His work bridges Indigenous sovereignty, cultural expression, and grassroots activism through research on labor, sports, and representation.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Anthropology, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
• Master's in American Indian Studies, UCLA

Research Interests: Kamper explores tribal sovereignty, labor activism, Indigenous cultural resilience through sports like basketball and skateboarding, and the impact of mainstream media on Indigenous representation. His latest work emphasizes 'joyful futures' in Indian Country, highlighting how sports foster intergenerational mentorship and cultural revival.

Publications: His books include Rezballers and Skate Elders (2023), The Work of Sovereignty (2015), and Waves of Belonging (2020), alongside an edited volume on Indian Gaming. These works analyze labor rights, cultural revitalization via sports, and Indigenous engagement with mainstream culture.

Affiliations: Beyond his academic roles, Kamper is a lifelong surfer and advocate for Indigenous youth through initiatives like the Intertribal Sports network and 4 Wheel War Pony.