Olavi Arens

Dr. Olavi Arens is a Professor of History at Georgia Southern University, affiliated with the Department of History within the College of Arts and Humanities. He holds an A.B. in Social Studies from Harvard University, an M.A. and Ph.D. in History from Columbia University, and a Certificate in Russian Studies from Columbia's Russian Institute. His research focuses on Russia, East Central Europe, and Baltic Studies, with particular emphasis on US policy toward Baltic independence movements, Soviet foreign policy, and the Brest-Litovsk Peace Treaty's impact.

• Education:
• A.B., Social Studies, Harvard University
• M.A., History, Columbia University
• Ph.D., Modern East European History, Columbia University (1976)
• Certificate, Russian Institute, Columbia University

Teaching includes courses like European Union Politics, Soviet Foreign Policy, and East Central European History. Current research explores US policy toward Baltic statehood (1918–1922) and the Brest-Litovsk Treaty's role in Baltic sovereignty debates. Professional roles include leadership in the Southern Conference on Slavic Studies and the Association for the Advancement of Baltic Studies.

Recognized as one of Armstrong State University’s top faculty members, Dr. Arens contributes to academic discourse through publications analyzing Baltic diplomatic history, Cold War geopolitics, and humanitarian interventions. His work bridges historical scholarship with contemporary geopolitical understanding.