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Chloe Bordewich
Public Historian | Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Toronto
Professional Background
Chloe Bordewich is a dynamic and intellectually curious professional whose extensive background in history and Middle Eastern studies has established her as a leading figure in public humanities and educational outreach. Holding a PhD in History and Middle Eastern Studies from Harvard University, Chloe has dedicated her career to understanding and interpreting the complexities of the SWANA (South West Asia and North Africa) region, with a particular focus on Egypt and Turkey. Her research is not only deep but also highly engaging, as she adeptly translates complex historical narratives into formats accessible to diverse audiences beyond the academic world.
Throughout her career, Chloe has held various prestigious positions that highlight her commitment to fostering connections between academia and the public. She served as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Jackman Humanities Institute at the University of Toronto, where she further honed her skills in interdisciplinary research and collaboration. Additionally, as a Public History Postdoctoral Associate at Boston University, Chloe worked on projects that emphasized the importance of making historical knowledge available and relatable to the general public.
Notably, she co-founded the Boston Little Syria Project, an initiative dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history and culture of the Syrian community in Boston. This project encapsulates her commitment to broadening access to information and promoting equity in cultural representation. Chloe's role in shaping narratives that matter is evident in her work, which spans a range of mediums including articles, lesson plans, exhibitions, podcasts, and live performances. Her versatility as a writer, editor, teacher, and translator enables her to synthesize complex ideas and communicate them effectively to wider audiences.
Education and Achievements
Chloe’s educational journey is distinguished by a strong academic pedigree. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Near Eastern Studies from Princeton University, where she developed a solid foundation in the languages, cultures, and histories of the Middle East. Her graduate education continued at Harvard University, where she pursued a Doctor of Philosophy degree, deepening her focus on the multifaceted narratives of history in the SWANA region. Additionally, Chloe studied Arabic and International Relations at the renowned Université Paris-Sorbonne, complementing her historical studies with geopolitical insights that inform her understanding of contemporary issues.
Chloe's thirst for knowledge also led her to undertake summer Arabic studies at Al Akhawayn University, further enhancing her linguistic capabilities. Her ability to navigate archives in Arabic, Turkish, and French has been instrumental in her research and outreach efforts, allowing her to access a wealth of primary sources to inform her work.
Notable Achievements
In her illustrious career, Chloe Bordewich has collaborated with various organizations aimed at fostering democracy and cultural exchange. During her tenure as a Program Associate for the Democracy Program at The Carter Center, she contributed to initiatives that underscore the importance of democratic processes and civic engagement in the Middle East.
As a CASA Fellow at the American University in Cairo, Chloe engaged with local scholars and communities, further deepening her understanding of the region's socio-political dynamics. Her commitment to building equitable international partnerships resonates in her work, as she actively seeks to engage diverse voices in historical discourse.
Chloe's focus on public humanities and outreach has prompted her to explore innovative ways to present history, ensuring that it is not seen as an isolated discipline but as a vital conduit for understanding contemporary issues. By emphasizing the importance of language and access to information, she has created platforms for dialogue and education that benefit a wide spectrum of audiences.
Whether through her contributions to academic journals, public presentations, or digital media, Chloe Bordewich continues to be a beacon of knowledge and inspiration in the field of history and Middle Eastern studies. Her commitment to equitable access, community building, and the transformative power of storytelling has left an indelible mark on both the academic community and the broader public.
Achievements
- PhD in History and Middle Eastern Studies from Harvard University
- Co-Founder of Boston Little Syria Project
- Former Postdoctoral Fellow at Jackman Humanities Institute, University of Toronto
- Former Public History Postdoctoral Associate at Boston University
- Former Program Associate at The Carter Center, focusing on democracy initiatives
- Former CASA Fellow at American University in Cairo
