Santa Cruz, CA
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our Santa Cruz Chapter June 6th!
This chapter brings together local surfers, families, and ocean lovers to celebrate community and connection through our events and programs.
Whether you’re paddling out, volunteering, or just coming to say hello, we can’t wait to see you at the beach! Check us out at one of our monthly meetups.
Meet your chapter leaders!!!
Shawna Baruh
I’m a longtime surfer and mom of two & stepmom to two more. Originally from Massachusetts, I didn’t grow up around surfing, but I was always drawn to the ocean. I started surfing at 20 years old on Cape Cod and quickly fell in love with both the challenge and the joy of being in the water.
I eventually moved to San Diego, where surfing became an even bigger part of my life and daily rhythm. Nearly two years ago, my family and I relocated to Santa Cruz, where we now enjoy living surrounded by both the ocean and the redwoods.
After more than 20 years of surfing, I know firsthand how much confidence, connection, and personal growth can come from time in the ocean. I also remember what it felt like to learn without much guidance — navigating ocean safety, surf etiquette, and all the unwritten rules of surfing mostly on my own. Creating a welcoming and supportive environment for the next generation of girls in the water became one of the reasons I wanted to open the Santa Cruz chapter of Girl Grom Surf Club.
Watching my own daughter light up while surfing with friends inspired me to help create that same sense of connection and confidence for other girls here in Santa Cruz. My hope is that this club helps girls build confidence in the ocean, support one another, learn water safety, and most importantly, have fun together. I want Girl Grom Surf Club Santa Cruz to feel like a safe and encouraging space for girls of all experience levels — wherever they are in their surf journey.
Catherine Handschuh
I have called Santa Cruz County home for the past 21 years. After graduating from UC Santa Cruz in 1998, I returned to the area following graduate school and earning my teaching credential — and I haven't looked back. The mountains, redwoods, and ocean make this place truly special, and there's nothing quite like living a mile from the beach with Nisene Marks State Park right in your backyard.
When I'm not teaching high school in San Jose, you'll find me at the beach, exploring the woods, running trails, catching live music, or traveling. My family and I have made it a priority to expose our daughter to diverse cultures, climates, and landscapes around the world.
I am thrilled to be part of an organization that empowers girls, fosters strength and cooperation, and instills a deep respect for the ocean.