Dara Fogel, Ph.D.

Dara Fogel, Ph.D.

Academia / Costumer / Panelist Guest / Writer

As a kid, Dara watched the original Star Trek with her dad, later going on to attend cons and win costume contests around the southwest. She designed and taught several Star Trek and Matrix themed philosophy courses. The first Queen of the Norman Medieval Fair, Dara is still an active volunteer, and was a founding member of the Arthurian Order of Avalon, the Santa Fe Renaissance Fair, and the Norman Family Theatre. She is the author of the bestselling GrailChase Chronicles Steampunk fiction series, and has written and presented extensively on the philosophy of Steampunk and Holographic Universe theory. Her essay “Life in the Holodeck” was included in Blackwell’s The Ultimate Star Trek and Philosophy. She teaches philosophy, ethics and humanities at two local universities, and is delighted to be returning to SoonerCon for the 5th year in a row.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dara-Fogel-584023008328459/

Website: http://www.province-of-the-mind.com/

Friday, June 7, 2019 2:00 p.m. | Location: Sooner A

Together, We Are Better: Identity and Diplomacy in Star Trek

Cultural nuances make upStar Trek’s memorable world building. Races within and outside of the Federation discover each other, work, and learn together. But Trekisn’t without its bad blood, warring factions, and competing interests. Alliances are made by an unwavering appreciation for each species’ differences that elevates the idea of common good across the universe. Is this the great legacy of Rodenberry’s genius?

Panelists: Sissy Space, Dara Fogel, Ph.D., Chaz Kemp, Larry Nemecek, Peter Pixie

Tracks: Fandoms, Film & TV, Culture & World Affairs

Tags: Panel

Friday, June 7, 2019 3:00 p.m. | Location: Noble

Readings: Alternate History

Panelists: Dara, Fogel Ph. D., Sue Sinor

Tracks: Writing & Publication

Tags: Reading

Friday, June 7, 2019 5:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B

Costume Essentials for an Emergency

What should you pack in a "cosplay emergency kit"? Find out why you need more than a bit of thread and a needle.

Panelists: Dara Fogel, Ph.D., James Dock, Kathleen M. O'Brien, Raiva, Melanie Unruh

Tracks: Costuming & Fashion, Cosplay

Tags: Workshop

Saturday, June 8, 2019 10:00 a.m. | Location: Boomer A

IDIC and Speculative Fiction’s Highest Ideals

“Infinite diversity in infinite combinations.” “I grok in fullness.” “Fear is the mind-killer.” “After all this time? Always.” “What’s the point in two hearts if you can’t be a bit forgiving now and then?” “Do. Or do not. There is no try.” How do these and other inspirations from sf illuminate our reality?

Panelists: Peter Pixie, Dara Fogel, Ph.D., Carolyn Kay, Marguerite Reed, The Dream, Scott Zrubek

Tracks: Culture & World Affairs, Pop Culture & Entertainment, Science Fiction, Fantasy

Tags: Panel

Saturday, June 8, 2019 1:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B

"I Saw It in the Window" Fabric Stories

Come and discuss the best ways to use fabric in your costume. From using curtains, drapes, and sheets, to best fabric choices, we discuss the good, great, and not-so-great designs.

Panelists: Kathleen M. O'Brien, Julie Barrett, Dara Fogel, Ph.D., PinkCherry Cosplay, Melanie Unruh

Tracks: Costuming & Fashion, Cosplay

Tags: Panel

Saturday, June 8, 2019 5:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer A

Science in Star Trek?

We like to think that Trek is fairly accurate science-wise. But don't look too close. Let's discuss the plausible science behind wormholes, transporters, and more.

Panelists: Michael Cross, Dara Fogel, Ph.D., Tim Frayser, William Leaf, Dr. Laura-Isobel McCall, Ted Pennella

Tracks: Fandoms, STEM, Film & TV

Tags: Panel

Sunday, June 9, 2019 11:00 a.m. | Location: Oklahoma G

Virtual Reality: The Ethics and Morals of a New Medium

Virtual reality, like all new media of human interactions, opens a new can of worms regarding ethics. What are the limits of user privacy? How do we protect children? What kinds of applications may inform these choices?

Panelists: Mel. White, Dara Fogel, Ph.D., Maureen McHugh, Tim Morgan, Wm. Mark Simmons, Austin Tindle

Tracks: Internet Life, Culture & World Affairs, STEM

Tags: Panel

Sunday, June 9, 2019 1:00 p.m. | Location: Boomer B

Upcycling Props

Ever wonder how cosplayers and sewists make fabric, ribbon, and mundane items into beautiful accents for garments? We show you how to upcycle those household items & thrift-store finds into first-rate props for your completed costuming look.

Panelists: Sherri Dean, Dara Fogel, Ph.D., Kathleen M. O'Brien, Prince Blackheart, Sissy Space

Tracks: Cosplay, Costuming & Fashion, Maker

Tags: Panel

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