Faculty in Residence

Faculty in Residence Program

The Faculty in Residence Program serves to support Soka University of America's academic objectives and is shaped to extend the classroom learning experience to all aspects of students' lives. Faculty in Residence are students' connection to enhanced academic potential serving to invigorate and enrich life at SUA. The Faculty in Residence Program is an excellent opportunity for students to get to know faculty outside of the traditional classroom environment. The Faculty Resident lives in the residence halls to support the students whether in their adjustment to campus life or assistance with coursework.

Faculty in Residence Program Goals

To extend academic learning beyond the classroom
To further develop faculty/student relationships
To further develop the ability to apply theory to practice on a range of life issues

In 2001, Soka University established the Faculty in Residence Program where the application of classroom theory, experiential learning, and life skill development found a fresh outlet within the residential community.

2012-2013 Faculty in Residence

Shane Barter, Assistant Professor, Department of International Studies

Greetings Soka students!

My name is Shane Barter. I am brand new to Soka University of America, having just completed my PhD at the University of British Columbia. My research interests are in Southeast Asian Politics, elections, and armed conflict. Along with my wife, Melissa Duong, and our son, Sidney Barter, I will be the faculty in residence at Somnus Hall for the 2011-2012 academic year. We are from Vancouver Island in western Canada. Melissa was actually born in Hong Kong, her parents being Chinese refugees from northern Vietnam. She speaks Cantonese, while I make due in French and Indonesian. Our two-year old son, Big Sid, is currently developing his own language. His interests include running, chasing birds, and eating broccoli. I can’t wait to get to know you, and hope to connect with you folks on several levels. Being new to Soka, my family and I look forward to learning from senior students and learning with freshmen about Soka and Aliso Viejo. We are also new to the United States, as many of you will be. Having worked for several years at a Thai human rights organization, worked in rural Indonesia, and travelled widely in East Asia, I know all about adjusting to new cultures and being far from home. The solution to this problem is making new friends and building a community. To this end, I hope you will join us for soirées, study sessions, and weekly soccer games!

See you soon! --Shane, Melissa, and Sid