Doug Sofer

Doug Sofer is Professor of History in the Division of Humanities at Maryville College, where he has taught for over two decades. He specializes in Latin American, African, and U.S. history through innovative courses like "A History of Latin America through Food" and "Drugs: A Global History," emphasizing history as an active interpretive discipline rather than passive memorization.

His academic credentials include a B.A. from Hartwick College and M.A./Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin, where his Latin American history specialization led to Fulbright-supported dissertation research in Bogotá, Colombia.

• B.A., Hartwick College
• M.A., University of Texas at Austin
• Ph.D., University of Texas at Austin

Professor Sofer's research explores historical methodology and public engagement through his multimedia project "You Are A Weirdo" (blog, podcast, book draft), which demystifies historical practice for contemporary audiences. His teaching spans regional histories and thematic investigations of material culture, social movements, and constitutional contexts.

His Fulbright Fellowship for Colombian research represents his primary scholarly recognition. He actively contributes to academic discourse through leadership roles including presidency of the Southeast World History Association.

• Fulbright Fellowship

Professor Sofer mentors students through diverse experiential learning: founding the Great Smokies Experience environmental program, directing the Maryville College Works initiative, and leading travel-study courses to Ghana, Germany, the Dominican Republic, and New York City. His community engagement includes board membership with Welcoming Immigrant Neighbors, Blount County.