Scott Homler

Scott Homler holds a Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota. After more than thirty years of teaching, first in French culture studies and with a particular interest in European colonialism and subsequent independence movements, he began to teach and conduct research in applied linguistics, specifically in translation and interpretation. As Director of the Program in Translation and Interpreting at the University of Minnesota, he has worked as an interpreter and trained professional interpreters in various fields, ranging from diplomatic and private sector communications to refugee and public service cross-cultural encounters, world health programs, and security studies. His broad range of interests intersect culture, history, the arts, and politics. A devoted student of world affairs, he has worked in and traveled through dozens of countries throughout the world.
He began offering lectures on cruise ships more than 15 years ago, with destinations in Asia, Latin America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Oceania. Integrating art, architecture, and history to study cultural identity, his presentations have high visual and narrative impact. Understanding world affairs through in-depth critical analysis and extensive cross-disciplinary research, his talent as a speaker is to articulate nuance and interconnectedness, to enrich our understanding of the complex identities passengers will encounter for more fruitful exploration and genuine appreciation of the historical, cultural, and geopolitical value of their cruise destinations.

Languages spoken: English, French

 

Photo credit: Scott Smith