Research-based, audience-centered talks that inspire curiosity, reflection, and action
Kim’s talks allow audiences to learn and share the abundant information about the natural world in creative and interactive ways. As an Environmental Humanities scholar and teacher, Kim stays current and curious about the natural world, providing memorable ways to increase our connection to planet Earth. She’s eager to customize a talk to fit your occasion and ready with the following topics:
“Black Eco-Ancestors: York, Harriet, and George”
Perfect for Black History Month (or any other month of the year!), this talk combines powerful stories about three African-Americans who did not let enslavement stop them from expressing incredible ecological expertise.
“Just Like Home: Why It Feels Good to be Outdoors"
Growing scientific evidence supports what people have known for a long time: it can feel great to spend time outdoors. This talk will explore the reasons why people feel positive effects from being outside. It also gives an introduction to and brief sample of the emerging outdoor mindfulness practice of "Forest Therapy", also known as "Shinrin Yoku" (Forest Bathing) in Japan. Kim is a Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide active in the Chicagoland area.
Kim’s environmental humanities scholarship includes:
Black on Earth: African-American Ecoliterary Traditions
Kimberly Ruffin expands the reach of ecocriticism by analyzing the ecological experiences, conceptions, and desires seen in African American writing.
American Studies, Ecocriticism, and Citizenship: Thinking and Acting in the Local and Global Commons
Co-editors Adamson and Ruffin recover underrecognized field genealogies in American Studies and ecocriticism.