CAS Newsletter 19-20

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
CAS WISHES PROFESSOR
JOEL SAMOFF A HAPPY
RETIREMENT
BY NESRINE MBAREK
To the professor who guided me through a new
way of understanding interlocked dynamics,
between immigration, colonialism, feminism, &
education
To the adviser who listened to an overwhelmed
discouraged freshman, offering unwavering support
and encouragement
To the mentor who rigorously taught me to challenge
power & the global order, to serve my community & make
more people live in dignity
To the friend of my family & my country. To my friend
My deepest respect, gratitude, & admiration to you, Joel.
CAS WELCOMES NEW DIRECTOR, JOEL CABRITA
BY CHEPCHIRCHIR TIROP
Professor Joel Cabrita joined the CAS family in 2018 as a professor of African
history. Prior to joining Stanford, she taught at the University of Cambridge and
SOAS (University of London). Her research is at the intersection of gender,
religion, and media in sub-Saharan Africa. She is currently working on a
biography of Regina Twala (1908-1968), a feminist and political activist from
her home country of Eswatini.
But Cabrita brings more than intellectual expertise to CAS. She is passionate
about community and providing a platform for scholars to exchange
ideas and build relationships. I had the pleasure of working closely with
her in planning a conference on religion and media in Africa in winter
2020. I was inspired by her meticulous planning and her intentionality
in drafting the program. Even when the conference was drastically
affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, Professor Cabrita
quickly adapted to the situation, ultimately hosting a different
version of the event. It is this kind of innovative spirit and
flexibility that Professor Cabrita brings to the classroom and
in her advising. She cares about students’ interests and
helps them communicate their ideas, always centering
their humanity. I am excited to continue working with her.
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