Natalie Underberg-Goode

Dr. Natalie Underberg-Goode is a Professor in the Games and Interactive Media Program at the Nicholson School of Communication and Media, University of Central Florida (UCF). She holds a Ph.D. in Folklore from Indiana University (2002) and a B.A. in Sociocultural Anthropology from UC Berkeley (1996). Her research focuses on digital ethnography, cultural heritage preservation, and participatory digital methods, with a strong emphasis on Latin American studies and Peru's cultural practices. She has been a key figure in projects like Portal to Peru and PeruDigital, which explore digital storytelling and community collaboration.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Folklore, Indiana University, 2002
• B.A. in Sociocultural Anthropology, UC Berkeley, 1996

Research Interests:

• Digital folklore and ethnography
• Visual anthropology
• Cultural heritage tourism
• Latin American cultural studies

Awards and Recognition:

• NSCM Outstanding Contribution to Inclusive Culture (2023)
• UCF Scroll & Quill Society (2020)
• Emerald Literati Network Award (2015)

Grants and Leadership:

• Directed Games and Interactive Media program (2019–2025), elevating UCF to #5 nationally
• PI/co-PI on grants totaling over $205K, including Department of Education funding
• Key Personnel on a $185K NEH grant

Professional Service:

• Co-organized international conferences and served as editor for Visual Anthropology Review
• Chaired Florida Folklife Council and advises Peruvian universities