By Michael Samuels 09F

Hiba Bou Akar, assistant professor of Middle Eastern studies, holds a Ph.D. in city and regional planning from the University of California at Berkeley, and a master’s degree in urban studies and planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Originally from Lebanon, she has also worked as an architect and urban planner, and as a consultant for the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia.

Now, Bou Akar is at work on her second book, based on her dissertation, called Planning Beirut: For the War Yet to Come. She is also part of a team project initiated to examine the living conditions of Syrian refugees in Lebanon.

Professor Bou Akar brought more than knowledge to Hampshire when she joined the faculty in fall 2012. She also brought “passion for critical urban and social theory,” she says, “as well as my love for an engaging and enjoyable learning environment even when dealing with difficult subjects.”

“I’m having a great time so far,” she adds.