Semiha Topal
Associate Director of the Tuohy Center for Interreligious Understanding
Background
Dr. Semiha Topal is the Program Manager at the Tuohy Center for Interreligious Understanding, dedicated to fostering environments for meaningful conversations and collaboration across diverse communities. Within the Department of Theology and Religious Studies, Dr. Topal coordinates programs that promote vital interreligious and intercultural dialogue. Prior to this role, she built over a decade of academic experience, including teaching positions at institutions like William & Mary and Colgate University. Her academic focus includes Islam, gender, secularism, and world religions. Her current role leverages her deep academic background with practical expertise in program implementation and coordination.
Areas of Expertise
Interreligious Program Coordination
Intercultural Dialogue Facilitation
Academic Teaching & Curriculum Design
Theology and Religious Studies (Islam/Gender)
Program Marketing & Graphic Design
Education
Ph.D., Religious Studies, Arizona State University
M.A., Gender Studies and Religion, SOAS-University of London
B.A., English Language and Literature, Fatih University
Courses Taught
- TRS 3499-01: Special Topics in Non-Christian Religions - Women in Islam
- TRS 3499-02: Special Topics in Non-Christian Religions - Religion and the Secular
