Column: Cruising into the mainstream with a lowrider professor

Denise Sandoval, a Chicana and Chicano studies professor at Cal State Northridge, is a key figure in lowrider culture and scholarship. She curated an exhibit showcasing 15 female artists within this realm, emphasizing her dedication to preserving and elevating this vibrant culture. Attendees celebrated her contributions, reflecting the warmth and respect she garners. Sandoval's work spans decades, including contributions to the Petersen Automotive Museum and developing an issue of Lowrider Magazine dedicated to women creators. Her influence and unique academic perspective make her a compelling figure in bridging lowrider culture with academia.

"Sandoval, who has taught at Cal State Northridge since 2002, is perhaps the premier scholar on lowrider culture and also an exemplar of what an academic should be."

"The atmosphere was like a polite house party. To the crowd, Sandoval could do no wrong - because she had never done wrong by them."

"Sandoval's reputation is such that when the owners of Lowrider Magazine... came back last year for a one-off edition... they asked her to serve as editorial director."

"Bryan Stevens praised Sandoval for 'add[ing] a unique academic viewpoint that elevates our exhibitions and helps make them approachable to those new to the subject matter.'"

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