Helje Kringlebotn Sødal

Helje Kringlebotn Sødal is a **Professor** at the **University of Agder (UiA)**, affiliated with the **Department of Religion, Philosophy and History**. She leads the **Religion, Kindergarten and School** research group and directs the bachelor's program in **Religion, Ethics and Society**. Her expertise spans Norwegian Christian history, religious diversity, and education. She has held roles such as Vice Dean for Research at the Faculty of Humanities and Education and has visiting research stays at the University of California (Santa Barbara) and Lubbock Christian University (Texas).

**Research Interests**: Norwegian Christian history, church studies, religious education in schools and kindergartens, religious diversity, and Christianity’s cultural role.

**Recent Work**: Edited and contributed to *Kristne strateger* (2023), analyzing Christian strategists in Norway. Published extensively on Hans Nielsen Hauge’s legacy, religious education policies, and Norwegian religious history. Co-authored studies on secularist kindergartens and religious diversity in education.

**Activities**: Conducts public lectures, radio appearances, and media contributions on topics like religious symbols, fasting traditions, and historical figures. Engages in editorial work and academic boards.