Carolinas Committee on U.S.–Arab Relations NEWSLINES

Volume 34, No. 1 The Newsletter of the Carolinas Committee on U.S.-Arab Relations June 2020 An Affiliate of the National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations Qatari: National Pride, In This Issue Resilience, and Reinvention by Kennedy Anderson 1 Qatari: National Pride, Resilience, and Reinvention by Kennedy Anderson

6 Modern Women in the Kingdom: Rights, Challenges, & Achievements by Kathryn Frizzell

8 Lessons from Travel in Kennedy Anderson

11 COVID-19 Wipes Out Model Season: My Personal Experience Joe P. Dunn

12 Where Are They Now? A Look at Exceptional Model Arab League Alumni Holly , New Business Development Manager – Anera

16 Kim Ghattas, Black Wave: , Iran, and the Forty-Year Rivalry That Unraveled Culture, Religion, and Collective Memory in the Middle East Reviewed by Dr. Joe P. Dunn

Dr. Joe P. Dunn, Director Jenny Dunn, Associate Director and co-editor of Newslines Carolinas Committee on U.S.–Arab Relations Converse College 580 East Main Street Spartanburg, SC 29302 Al Jazerra Building

(continued on page 2) (continued from page 1) NEWS AND ARTICLES

As I write this article in May 2020, the National Council on U.S.-Arab arrival at Hamad International Air- international travel is very restrict- Relations trip to . I had heard port in Doha, where we were ush- ed, and my life dream to travel as them speak about it in glowing ered through special lines, we were much as possible is on hold. When I terms, and now it was my good for- treated as royalty. My private suite will be able resume my quest is un- tune. at the five-star “W” hotel in down- certain. But I can think back to a The Qatar trip is not like other town Doha was stunning, and the rare and special opportunity that travel adventures. [You can read multi-course meals throughout, pre- I had in February and early March about my trip to Rabat in an article pared by a Michelin star chef, were just before the COVID-19 virus shut- in this newsletter.] The experience beyond description. Everything down occurred. Some of my peers in this unique Arab culture was that we did was first class. Our brief- from our Model Arab League del- quite remarkable. Rabat was eye ers knew our names and treated us egation previously had enjoyed opening; Qatar was dazzling. One like foreign diplomats. Needless to the opportunity to participate in has to start with the luxury. From our say, I have never known anything on this level. The National Museum But the trip was more than mere luxury. We had briefings with high-ranking government officials and ministers, individuals from the business sector such as at Qatar Petroleum, and cultural leaders. Our visits included the Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Foreign Af- fairs, National Museum of Qatar, Museum of Islamic Art, Al Jazeera, Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, Qatar Financial Cen- ter, and more. We seemingly never stopped over the five days of - vis its, and they were all wonderful. I learned so much. The friendliness of everyone that we met from the high-ranking to occasional oppor- tunities to engage with common workers was a joy. My adviser asked me to pick one policy issue from the trip to dis- cuss. After much reflection, I decid- ed to speak about Qatari national identity and the impact and reac- tion to the recent/present block- ade of the nation. This quote from the wall of the National Museum of Qatar says it succinctly: “Qatari identity is rooted in this unique ge-

2 NEWS AND ARTICLES ography and history of the peninsu- la, true to its Arab heritage and the values of Islam while welcoming new influences and ideas… United the Qatari people are striving to open up new opportunities and promising horizons, strengthened by a shared vision for the future.’’ Qatar spent 55 years as a Brit- ish protectorate, but unlike many other liberation struggles, the end of colonial authority happened peacefully as “a mutual decision for the British to leave Qatar.” Brit- ain played a positive role in the de- velopment of the nation, including the development of the oil industry. In 1922, to separate its oil territo- ries, the British played a role in the Qatar Peninsula being separated as a distinct entity from the Arabia Peninsula mainland that would be- come later the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This action ensured Qatar’s independent status and economic future. On September 3, 1971, with the acquiescence of Saudi Arabia, Qatar became an independent state. The strong ties between Brit- ain and Qatar remain today. And Qatar has always remained fiercely Kennedy with friend independent. The relationship between Saudi as , Saudi Arabia, the Unit- Kuwaiti mediators presented a list Arabia and other surrounding states ed Arab Emirates, , , of Saudi demands to Qatar which though has not always been har- and the Maldives severed diplo- included: cutting off all links with monious. Many factors contribute matic ties with Qatar. Saudi Ara- Iran, expelling resident members to conflicts. Among the more con- bia closed its airspace to all Qatar of Hamas and the Muslim Brother- tentious in recent years has been Airways flights. Soon after, all the hood, shutting down the Al-Jazeera Qatar’s close relationship with Iran, GCC countries, with the exception network to “stop interfering in for- with which it shares oil fields, and of and , ordered all eign countries’ affairs,” and ceas- the political ties of various Gulf of their own citizens to leave Qa- ing any funding or support for “ter- States with different political groups tar, and they severed financial ties rorist” organizations. that others consider hostile. and trade agreements. Kuwait and The GCC blockade undoubt- In June 2017 the fray exploded Oman remain neutral, and in 2017, edly shaped the contemporary

3 NEWS AND ARTICLES history of Qatar. The blockade 2017 define the state of the cross- Emirates cannot fly directly or cross brought devastating personal loss- cultural family, religious, and eco- by land into Doha. Qatari citizens es but produced longer-term pro- nomic links throughout the Gulf. Or have also been deprived of reli- found national gains for the belea- as it was put in words, “[P]ersonal- gious freedoms and practices since guered state as well. Qatar’s place ized and deeply familial relation- the holy places of Mecca and at the “crossroads of the world” ships among the Saudis, the Emi- Medina in Saudi Arabia are virtu- came into play as the nation dem- ratis, and the Qataris inextricably ally inaccessible to Qatari citizens. onstrated both its vulnerabilities combine with political questions.” Qatar currency, now banned in and its capacity for resilience and Although Qatari airspace re- Saudi Arabia, has led to problems reinvention. The challenges and mains open, families in neighboring for Qatari citizens abroad. These heartbreaks of the blockade since Saudi Arabia and the United Arab experiences of interpersonal loss have diminished trust in and across Group at the Museum of Islamic Art the Gulf region. Regardless of the shock that the Qatari government felt from the blockade, the nation quickly devised a domestic frame- work to deal with these losses. This framework galvanized national identity and pride, motivated stra- tegic economic self-sufficiency, and inspired internal opportuni- ties for women. As Qataris assert, they appreciate the “blessing” of change which grew from necessity following the blockade. Despite the initial devasta- tion of being separated from their Gulf partners, the people of Qatar joined together in solidarity. The blockade served as a catalyst for the people of Qatar and the gov- ernment to join together and cre- ate an identity for Qatar separate from the previous broader regional identity. The people celebrate their history of former British rule as it developed Qatar’s capital Doha into a multicultural city. Prior to the conflict, the Qatari government had to balance the needs of the GCC and Qatar. While still actively supporting the GCC, Qatar now can concentrate more on its own affairs. From establishing a nation-

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Doha Skyline

In the Desert wide diary company in under a the world that Qatar is “open [to] hospitality. The hospitality in Qatar month to securing the World Cup new opportunities and promising makes southern practice pale in 2022, Qatar has developed strate- horizons, strengthened by a shared comparison. Our trip guide, Sheikh gic initiatives that show the nation’s vision for the future.” Abdulaziz Abdulla Al Thani, along resilience and innovative vision for My time in Qatar was unfor- with all of our spectacular briefers, the future. The admiration for the gettable. I initially entered the trip made it their mission to ensure that government can be seen through- thrilled to explore a new country in each of us felt welcomed. I hope out the country as the Emir’s face is place of classes for a week. I could international travel will soon return on buildings, t-shirts, bumper stick- not have anticipated how inspiring to normal. However, if Qatar is my ers, and magnets. The country has and refreshing the trip would be. I last international trip for a while, at masterfully created an identity returned with broader parameters least it will remain one of my most that was designed and practiced both for food and society. I was memorable life experiences. by the Qatari people and govern- enamored by the small nation’s ment in tandem. This strong and national pride and unity. I also re- vibrant national identity will show turned home with a new gauge for

5 NEWS AND ARTICLES Modern Women in the Kingdom: Rights, Challenges, & Achievements by Kathryn Frizzell

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia abayas, and some wore makeup Arabia truly progressive in terms of has become a popular topic in and did their hair in fancy ways, women’s rights? the media due to its renovations whereas others chose a natural following the enactment of the look. How has this moderniza- What are the laws that increased Vision 2030 plan and increas- tion affected the lives of Saudi women’s rights in the Kingdom? ingly progressive laws regarding women? Have the laws recently women’s rights. It was very inter- passed by the Kingdom regarding The Saudi Vision 2030 plan is a esting to see diversity amongst women’s rights initiated change strategy to diversify the Saudi Saudi women; some wore burkas, in the Saudi society? In other economy and develop the coun- whereas others wore bright, open words, is the Kingdom of Saudi try’s infrastructure, capacities, and influence, which will allow Shopping in a store the Kingdom to compete eco- nomically on the international stage. The Saudi Vision 2030 plan spearheaded this modernization through progressive goal setting. The plan commits to “providing opportunities for all” through vari- ous means and “unlocking the talent, potential, and dedication of our young men and women”. This inclusion of all Saudis, specifi- cally women, in the language of the 2030 Plan paved the path to- wards more progressive laws for Saudi women. As of 2017, laws were passed in Saudi Arabia that granted women equal treatment in the workplace, permitted them to obtain family documents from the government, and allowed them to obtain a passport and travel without permission from a wali, or a male guardian.1 In ad- dition, women can get a driver’s license, can spectate sports, and no longer have to wear an abaya so long as they dress modestly.2 Although these freedoms are put into law, do they actually reach the lives of Saudi women? This question, among many others, was what I aimed to answer on my trip to the Kingdom.

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What is the social perception of Prince Turki bin Faisal noted that and factors into the mix regarding these changes in women’s rights? “women are taking over, and that social order and norms, and they is good”. In addition, he hopes to would require further discussion The reality is that there are mixed see women granted more rights and policies to combat the con- feelings within the Kingdom re- and opportunities in the future. sequences of such changes. For garding the progression of wom- Saudi women are like an un- example, allowing women more en’s rights. Many Saudi women tapped resource that, if nurtured, career opportunities has placed have taken these opportunities to could greatly improve the King- them in the path of sexual ha- wear brighter, open abayas and dom’s economy. Dr. Turki Alawad rassment; the Saudi government not cover their hair, whereas oth- explained that since Saudi wom- does not have an effective pro- ers still wear burkas. The ability to en have been included more in cess for addressing sexual harass- choose what they want to wear is education and the workforce, ment in the workplace because a big step for Saudi Arabia; how- they have contributed new per- it did not occur in the workplace ever, according to an anonymous spectives, greater creativity, and when women were not allowed source, sometimes the way a more engagement in their ca- to work. However, following social woman dresses is up to the wom- reer fields. This projects a positive changes and progression in other an and sometimes it is up to her future for women’s rights in Saudi parts of the world, people, over family. In addition, regional differ- Arabia if the Saudi government time, will want more involvement ences impact opinions of these continues to increase opportuni- in decision-making and demo- changes. The west of Saudi Ara- ties and freedoms for its women. cratic processes in politics, which bia tends to lean towards a more will naturally increase the rights of progressive perspective, where as What changes would Saudi wom- all Saudis, including women. much of the south and east of the en like to see in the future? Kingdom, especially in the rural In Conclusion areas, still practices the more tra- The future of Saudi women’s ditional cultural and social norms. rights seems to show increased The Saudi Vision 2030 plan and so- This means that although women freedoms; however, Hanan Al- cial changes in Saudi Arabia have can choose how they dress or Ahmadi explains, “a transforma- greatly impacted the lives of Sau- whether or not to interact with tion is indeed under way, but we di women, and it seems as though men, they may be looked down need to be able to create this there will be further improvements on or disapproved of. However, change gradually and maintain in the future. With every step the Dr. Turki Alawad emphasizes that our identity”. Dr. Turki Alawad ex- Kingdom takes to progress, there you have to separate the opin- plains that “it’s not perfect, but will need to be measures to pre- ions and practices of the people it is gradually going there”. There vent negative consequence and from the government and the are other factors to consider efforts to address the mentality laws, as evident by the lack of when contemplating the future and perspective of women’s rights women driving on the roads and of women in Saudi Arabia, and it in the people. In order to maintain limited number of women attend- is vital to remove all Western bias the Saudi identity and ensure a ing sporting events. Dr. Turki Ala- during this contemplation. Not all smooth transition throughout the wad states that it is “more than Saudi women would want all re- Kingdom, it is vital that this process just the image, the women and strictions lifted; maintaining the unfolds at its own pace, especial- people [in Saudi Arabia] believe Saudi identity, which includes cul- ly without Western influence. One in this”, which shows an increas- tural norms and religious beliefs, anonymous source informed me ingly changing perspective within remains a strong aspect of how that Saudi women hope that the the Saudi people. Saudi women identify themselves increasingly progressive laws met and retain certain standards, by the continued use of abayas What is the perspective of the such as privacy, order, and re- and social norms will solidify the Saudi government? spect. Modernization and pro- importance of the Saudi identity gression bring new complications globally.

Note: I would like to thank all of the Saudi women, officials, and educators who contributed to my under- standing of Saudi Arabia and its people.

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Lessons From Travel in Morocco Kennedy Anderson Lessons from Travel in Morocco Kennedy Anderson

When our adviser ventured the would expand my parameters as a the unworldly beauty, and a bit of idea of going to Morocco to par- young adult. Some moments may boasting about my own personal ticipate in the Rabat Model Arab have been less than ideal; howev- growth. League conference in the No- er, as I reflect on the adventure and Prior to this excursion, I had vember 2019, I made it clear that I write this essay, I am overwhelmed some basic knowledge about Mo- would be on the trip. I have always with the memories of the positive rocco largely stemming from re- been an avid traveler eager to see events. When I talk about the trip search for our Model Arab League more of the world. However, I did with family, my stories are often competition preparation. But in not anticipate how much this trip filled with laughter, descriptions of reality, I was venturing into the un- known. Growing up in a diverse household, I was never a stranger Evening ride into the dunes to new cultures and experiences. My entire family’s reaction was full support and some envy. They cre- ated a group chat entitled “Keep- ing Up With Kennedy” so that ev- eryone could follow my adventure. We were all ready to embrace the Moroccan experience. Our prima- ry purpose was to participate in The Université Internationale de Rabat (UIR) Model Arab League; however the lessons from this trip overshad- owed the conference. To ensure that they reap maximum rewards from the opportunity, I propose two key lessons for students who travel outside of the country. The first lesson that I implore readers to adopt in travel and study abroad is not to be a tour- ist. This is not an encouragement for people to avoid exploring new locations with zeal, but a recom- mendation for a new approach to travel. While standing out is often a positive trait, I found that the best way to travel is to blend in. Learn from the locals, embrace the local language, and learn the culture. There is a difference between cul- tural appropriation and embracing and learning new cultures. Learn

8 NEWS AND ARTICLES and respect the culture of new lo- cations. Beyond my limited knowledge from Model Arab League, I knew little that would aid me in Moroc- co. In regard to languages, I knew introductory French and “black panther” Arabic; but, I was willing to learn. Starting with our flight to Paris, I tried to limit my use of English outside of competition. During our time at UIR, I tried to envision myself as a student there. I made friends with UIR students and asked for tips for navigating the country. By the end of my time I was invited to sit in on classes. Connecting with UIR students provided me the unique experience to sit in a class session on Moroccan literature and gen- Evening on the URI campus der and peacebuilding. If I would not have embraced the Moroccan home whether it is down the street ferences that I know many of my lifestyle and worked to incorporate or 10,000 miles away. When you teammates continue to think of and learn French and Arabic, I do travel, understand that things will through various lenses. not think I would have gained as be different. Do not spend time While I admit that eight-plus much from this trip. Stepping out of comparing a place to back home hours trekking over the Atlas Moun- my comfort zone and learning and because it is not a competition. It tains through the night on a hot embracing Moroccan life resulted is easy to spend time focusing on bus seems less than appealing, it in me being treated as a Moroc- what a country doesn’t have in allowed us the unique opportu- can rather than a foreigner. comparison to your home; but you nity to see most of a country in a My other lesson is simple but will be missing what a place does few brief days. The experience often the hardest to put in prac- have. provided views into some of the tice. The singer Sonny Curtis said I know that the members of most breathtaking sights: the Atlas it best “love is all around, no need our group, myself included, were Mountains, the Merzouga Desert, to waste it.” While I am sure Sonny shocked when they first experi- the Gorges du Todgha, the Kasbah in no way was talking about the enced the so-called Third World of Ait Ben Haddou, and the colorful beauty of Morocco in this 1980s hit, toilet of a hole in the floor. How- and lively old medina in Marrake- this lyric resonates with the most ever, I do not look back and la- ch. Thinking back to the trip, I can important lesson that I learned in ment the absence of the porcelain see why so many movies are shot Morocco: embrace the beauty throne. Instead I laugh as I think in Morocco. I emphasize that this around you. Although the experi- back to the first explanation of how trip was full of beauty beyond any- ence had challenges, it was beau- to properly execute the use of the thing seen in the more developed tiful. Once travelers realize that hole. When traveling one must be West. We must stop and take in the the world is not your hometown, adaptable. My life has been full of beauty around us. Leave at home the experience of travel is richer. moving and adapting so adopting preconceived expectations that Food, drinks, bathrooms, weather, this lesson was not difficult. During inhibit your full ability to appreciate lifestyle is different when you leave our trip, we encountered many dif- what is before you, and you may

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At the airport

not have the opportunity to pass with delegates from the MENA and felt like a minority in my own home. this way again. other regions of the world. As a child, I became aware that in Competing in Model Programs Traveling to Morocco touched certain places when my family sat leads to interactions with students the core of my being. When de- down to eat we received stares from around the world, and since scribing my experience to others, from our white counterparts. Mo- my trip to Morocco, my interna- I am often taken back to an inci- rocco was a unique experience for tional friend group has increased. dent in a small shop. I was look- me because I was able to blend As I am writing this I reflect on my ing for small gifts to take home for somewhat with the populous and most recent experience at Interna- my family. As I was shopping, one not feel like a minority. I felt wel- tional Model NATO. I was speaking of the shop workers, an Amazigh comed and respected as I walked with a delegate that attended the (Berber) man began to help me around and entered shops. I felt University of Laval in Canada. Dur- look for gifts. As I was negotiating accepted in Morocco and that ing our conversation I learned that prices, he stopped me and of- feeling has extended past the trip. the delegate was from Tangier. fered me the price I wanted and This experience has permanently We immediately bonded when I a free item. He premised the deal affected me in the most positive revealed that I had recently trav- with saying, “because you look way. I look forward to my next trip eled to Morocco. The ability to talk like us.” Growing up in the United to the region and the new lessons about a delegate’s home with an States as a woman of color, I often I will learn. I hope that my lessons appreciative and open mindset am very aware of my race. While I outlined in this article can allow gave me a chance to understand grew up with a mixed-race family other students to get the most out and connect at a deeper level background filled with support, I still of their travels.

10 NEWS AND ARTICLES COVID-19 Wipes Out Model Arab League Season: My Personal Experience Joe P. Dunn

We historians always wish to document events and activities as part of the record for the future. In this newsletter, which I have edited since 1998, I have tried to main- tain an annual record of both the Southeast (SERMAL) and National (NUMAL) Model Arab League con- ferences. This article is for the pur- poses of that record. This year was one of the most promising delegations that I have had in my 34 years in our Model Programs activities. In November we participated in the Rabat (Mo- rocco) Model Arab League and enjoyed great success. The trip is discussed in another article. Our International Model NATO team swept the awards in that competition in Washington, DC, in February. Against 26 delegations from a large number of European and Canadian universities as well as top U.S. institutions, our two teams took two of the three Out- standing Delegations awards. It was one of the best performanc- es that we have had. We looked forward to equal success in MAL At this moment, we do not know one of the greater challenges that competitions. when and how colleges will re- I have faced. We had a full Southeast Re- open and how instruction will be As I have said many times in gional Model (SERMAL) planned conducted in the fall. Students various forums, the Model experi- for mid-March with some new and their families continue to be ence is one of the greatest educa- schools joining us for the first time. impacted financially, socially, and tional tools that I have been able Then COVID-19 hit. With great emotionally. Whatever the future to offer my students for more than sadness, we had to pull the plug holds, it will be a major effort for three decades. Whatever it takes, on SERMAL two days before we the models to return to full flower. we need to get back to the cen- began. It was a tough but nec- Social distancing is not conducive tral role that our Model Programs essary decision. Cancellation of to the close interaction of a mod- have played in the lives of genera- the National Model soon followed. el. Travel could remain problemat- tions of students. There will be a As with most institutions, the ic, and college budgets definitely day when I am no longer involved college closed down, all students will be severely restricted. I fear with the Model, but the program were sent home, and we pivoted that getting our program back to must continue for the benefit of fu- immediately to online instruction. normative function is going to be ture students.

11 NEWS AND ARTICLES Where Are They Now? Where Are They Now? A Look at ExceptionalA Look at Exceptional Model Arab League Alumni Model Arab League Alumni Holly Jordan, New Business Development Manager – Anera

Nationals that year. One of my 2009. That degree was far different teammates, Josie Shaheen (née than what I had studied at Con- Fingerhut), serving as Assistant verse, namely political theory and Secretary-General that year, con- MENA politics. My Master’s focused vinced Dr. Dunn to let me serve as on Biblical and Hellenistic Judaism. Chief of Staff that year, a position I had always been interested in the she made up that we now use at unique position of modern Israel in every major conference. When I the Middle East, and I suppose I en- got there, the entire delegation of tered that degree with a “how did had no-showed. There were we get here?” mentality. During this topics on Eritrea in both Political Af- time, both during my degree and in Holly Jordan How did you come to participate in fairs (then Ministers of the Interior) the gap before my PhD, I served as New Business DevelopmentModel Manager Arab League? - Anera and Economic Affairs that year, as an adjunct professor of religion at How did you come to participate in Model Arab League? well a case in the Arab Court of Jus- UGA, teaching world religions. After Honestly, it wasn’t intentional. tice, and I ended up representing a brief stint as a Communications Honestly, it wasn’t intentional.Many Manywomen women come come to to Converse Converse College wanting to participate in MAL, which is an incredibly competitive process to join at Converse.Eritrea An in all three committees. I had Director at a large Presbyterian email went out my freshmanCollege year (2003)wanting about tosome participate sort of debate inclub (I nowbeen know in itMAL all of about six weeks Church, I matriculated into Virginia was in fact not a debateMAL, club) about which the Middleis an East incredibly (I had never com heard- of theat Arab this League point. Josie introduced me to Tech’s interdisciplinary Alliance for at the time). It soundedpetitive fun, and I hadprocess done Debate to Leaguejoin atin high Con school,- soPhilip I figured D’Agati, why the previous year’s Social, Political, Ethical, and Social not? I did the research -verse. the topic An was email the West went Bank outWall, myand wefresh were- assigned either Israel or - and came prepared. I biffed the tryout at the very end andSecretary-General was not with whom 12 Thought (ASPECT) PhD program in chosen for the team. I thenman took year an International (2003) about Relations some class with sort Converse’s years MAL later I would co-author The 2011, earning my degree in 2016. In advisor, Joe Dunn, as anof elective. debate I guess club I did (I well now enough know in clas it swas debating theModel topics ofArab the League Manual. My this degree, I combined my under- course, as Dr. Dunn askedin mefact to joinnot the a team debate roughly club) three weeks about before SERMALknowledge 2004. of the region was still graduate studies in politics with my Converse represented boththe JordanMiddle and East (I that had year, never so Dr. Dunnheard of course assigned me to Jordan. Yes, I was Holly Jordan the Delegate representing Jordan. And yes,so I stillnew have that when Josie told me I comparative religion background that placard. of the Arab League at the time). It was representing Eritrea, I asked from UGA to study the Arab-Israeli sounded fun, and I had done De- Phil what an Eritrea was. Needless Conflict, focusing on the political Because I had joined sobate late, there League was not ain spot high for meschool, to attend so Nationals I to that say, year. Onehe laughed at me, cor- and security issues revolving around of my teammates, Josie figuredShaheen (née why Fingerhut), not? I servingdid the as research Assistant Secretary -General that year, convinced Dr. Dunn to let me serve as Chief of Staff that year, a positionrected she mademy interrogative to where, the evolution of personal status up that we now use at every- the major topic conference. was the When West I got Bank there, Wall, the entire delegationand gave of me a binder of research laws under the State of Israel. I was Eritrea had no-showed.and There we were were topics assignedon Eritrea in either both Political Israel Affairs and (then a briefing on the three topics able during this time to teach in the Ministers of the Interior)or and Palestine Economic - Affairs and thatcame year, prepared. as well a case in theI wouldArab Court be of debating and present- Departments of Religion and Cul- Justice, and I ended up Irepresenting biffed the Eritrea tryout in all at three the committees. very end I had been in MAL all of about six weeks at this point. Josie introduced me to Philip D’Agati, the previousing. That year’s first semester in the- pro ture, Political Science, and History and was not chosen for the team. I gram ended with my study-travel and gained an appreciation for then took an International Relations visit to Jordan, bringing to an end my areas of interest from a multidis- class with Converse’s MAL advisor, a whirlwind six months that I never ciplinary perspective. I also began Joe Dunn, as an elective. I guess I expected to experience. Those first a Model Arab League program did well enough in class debating experiences caused me to change at Tech in 2012, for which I was the topics of the course, as Dr. Dunn my major and set me on a path of awarded the Model Arab League asked me to join the team roughly 15 years’ service to the program. Lifetime Achievement Award. I, three weeks before SERMAL 2004. along with my students at Virginia Converse represented both Jordan Could you start with a quick run- Tech, founded the Appalachian and Libya that year, so Dr. Dunn of down of the path you took after Regional Model Arab League (AR- course assigned me to Jordan. Yes, college and how you got to where MAL), which has continued to be a I was Holly Jordan the Delegate you are today? successful hybrid Model since 2014. representing Jordan. And yes, I still At the time, I was the first alum of have that placard. After leaving Converse College in the program to start a new delega- 2006, I began a Master of Arts in tion, and I am now one of five pro- Because I had joined so late, there Religion at the University of Geor- gram alumni (myself, Philip D’Agati, was not a spot for me to attend gia, which I completed in August of Joseph W. Roberts, David Takitaki,

12 NEWS AND ARTICLES and Rob Willingham) to advise col- years at Converse, 5 years at UGA, 6 core chapters of my dissertation lege teams. years at Virginia Tech and Roanoke seven years later. I don’t know that College, and now 2 years in DC. All this is the best way to go about life These experiences led to a three- that transience has made me real- post-college. In fact, I’m sure most year appointment as a Visiting As- ize that it is the bonds you form with parents would be horrified to read sistant Professor of Religion at Roa- your peers and your community this. But, as I always advised my stu- noke College beginning in 2014, that give you a sense of grounding dents, spend your time in college where I was able to teach in a through life. Find a group of people figuring out what you’re passionate wonderful, liberal arts environment that bring out the best of you, that about. I changed my major three very similar to my Converse days. In you can rely on in times of need, times during college and ended up addition to the core, comparative and with whom you can grow in far away from where I started (bio- religions courses, I was able to de- your career and studies. My closest chemistry!). If you end up choosing sign my own course on the politics friends are the ones I made through to go to graduate school, do it be- and religion of the modern MENA college and graduate school, with cause it is the thing that will make region. I also started a Model Arab whom I would workshop papers, you happy in that moment. If any- League program at Roanoke Col- debate my studies, and celebrate thing else will make you happy, pur- lege in 2016, and Roanoke has with when I achieved even the sue it. School will always be there continued to be a high-performing smallest of victories. Surround your- for you to return to if you choose. college at ARMAL, the Southeast self with supportive people, and be But find something that makes you Regional Model Arab League (SER- a good friend to them, and every- excited to wake up in the morning MAL), and the National University thing else falls into place. and pursue that. For some, it will be Model Arab League (NUMAL). In a career. For others, it will be your 2017, my Visiting position ended, Also, remember that you won’t be life outside of your career. But use and I moved to Washington, DC, able to give 100% every day. Some- your talents for good. with the goal of working in some- times giving it your all means only thing relating to the Levant Region, being able to do 10% of what you With such varied experiences, why where I could use my studies to do know you’re able to do--and that is did you decide to work for Anera? development work. At a brief stint okay! Do your best, but be forgiv- writing proposals for a federal con- ing of yourself. And apply the les- I became aware of Anera through tractor focusing in cybersecurity, sons you learn to being better the the National Council! On a study- I found my current career, writing next day. travel visit to in 2012, I met grant applications and managing Bill Corcoran, then the President the New Business Development de- Graduating college can be disori- and CEO of Anera. He described partment within Anera (American entating for many students, how Anera’s work in Lebanon and Pal- Near East Refugee Aid), an interna- did you find direction after leaving estine, and I was immediately tional governmental organization college life? struck by how unique Anera was serving refugees in the Levant since as a development INGO. All but 1968. Everything in my studies and I went to more college! I knew I one of Anera’s country staff, who career has led me to this dream wanted to be a professor, but I make up the majority of our staff, job, where I get to use my research wasn’t exactly sure where I wanted are from the communities in which background, subject matter exper- to land. My varied degrees show they serve. It is truly a bottom-up fo- tise, and love of the Middle East to this, because I pretty much just cused organization that responds help secure lasting improvements studied what I thought was interest- to the needs on the ground instead to the lives of refugees in Palestine, ing. Without having a rigid plan in of imposing “solutions” from Amer- Lebanon, and Jordan. place, I believe I was more open ica without local context. As my to considering other learning paths career shifted out of academia, I What are some habits that led to and career goals. I had no inten- found myself visiting Anera’s web- your successful education and tion of returning back to my interest site to see what they had been do- career? in the Arab-Israeli Conflict when I ing since I met Bill, and I found a job entered my master’s. But one elec- listing that felt like reading my own Create family wherever you go. I tive with the late Dr. Randy Sturman CV back to me. I immediately ap- was a navy brat growing up, and on the anthropology of the Conflict plied for the position and was fortu- my life reset every two to three reignited my interest in that area. nate enough to be hired by Anera years until I graduated high school. The term paper for that course in January 2019. Anera allows me The same was true in college - 3 eventually became one of the to put my study of political and cul-

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tural theory into practice, using ev- searching legal precedent to write been possible without being an erything I’ve studied since I was 17 into topic guides. Some of the Word alumna of MAL. to work in a region I’ve been fasci- templates I designed for the ACJ as nated by since I was a child. I get to National Chief Justice in 2005-2006 You wrote the book on Model Arab work with amazing people from all are still used to this day! League. What made you decide to of the countries in which we work, do this? Do you have any tips for and I find myself fulfilled in ways SERMAL will always be my favorite students who want to be better del- that I never thought I would outside conference to attend. It is held at egates? academia. my alma mater (Converse) and is always a mini-reunion of Converse So the book… the book just fell You attended numerous Model MAL alumnae. Getting to go back out of the sky. Matthew Kopel, Arab League Conferences since to Spartanburg nearly every year from Bloomsbury, contacted Phil- 2004 and won awards on the re- since I graduated to do something ip D’Agati, my colleague, close gional and national level. How I love as much as I loved my time friend, program alum, and faculty many models did you attend and there has been a blessing. Each advisor of MAL with a CV in the what are some of the memories model has its own personality, and program even longer than mine, you have from those conferences? NUMAL and NERMAL were some of about the possibility of writing a What was your favorite model to at- the most fun experiences I’ve ever textbook on the subject. Matthew tend? had. I could write an entire book was an alum of the program as well on stories from during committee and believed this would be a valu- I actually had to pull up my CV and and after-hours shenanigans, so able resource for both current stu- tally this. I believe I have attended to list some memories here would dents and schools looking to start 27 models, including NERMAL, SER- take up too many pages. But I a program. Phil reached out to me MAL, NUMAL, CARMAL, NHSMAL, can say that because of the close about co-authoring the textbook, ARMAL, and AHSMAL. I have served bonds with students and peers from and we made a plan to tackle as delegate, justice, advocate, as- schools such as Georgia State, Ken- the project. In a multi-day writing sistant chief justice, chief justice, nesaw State, Northeastern, Hollins, storm at Phil’s house over winter chief of staff, chair, faculty advisor Berry, and, of course, Converse break 2014-2015, Phil and I, along (for three difference colleges in- College, my entire MAL experience with frantic phone calls to several cluding once as a surrogate advi- has shaped who I am today. of our students and delegates from sor for Converse College), judge, our own years (some of whom ac- conference coordinator, and ple- Along with the conferences, I was tually showed up at Phil’s house), nary keynote speaker over the last fortunate enough through the storyboarded the book, created 15 years (and intend to judge at Council to participate in two study- the outline, and pulled together NUMAL again in 2020). In fact, the travel visits. The first was to Jordan our (at that time) decade-plus re- only positions in MAL I have not in 2004 to study Arabic and Levan- sources on the program. I dragged held are bailiff, secretary-general, tine politics at Ahl al-Bayt University binders I hadn’t opened since col- or assistant secretary-general! I in Mafraq. I had never before been lege out of bookcases to use as won surprisingly few awards dur- out of the country, my entire world source material, and Phil and I re- ing this time as a student - the only changed. I landed in Jordan not lived so many moments together award I won during undergradu- even knowing the Arabic alphabet over those few days. The book ate was Best Crisis Chair at the 2006 and was absolutely a fish out of wa- came together more quickly than NUMAL and as far as I know am still ter. One of my dearest MAL friends either of us could have imagined, the only Chief Justice to have won and 2004 Secretary-General, Dan- and Manchester University Press a chairing award. I earned my only iel Quintal, was on that trip with me, (who picked up the contract from debating award during graduate and we still talk about the adven- Bloomsbury) published it in March school in the Heads of State com- tures we had traveling through Jor- 2016. The book is the only textbook mittee in 2012. Most of my MAL dan for six weeks. I also was chosen for the program to date, and I am career as a student was spent in for the Lebanon Summer Fellowship so incredibly proud of what Phil the Arab Court of Justice, which in 2012 and traveled through Leba- and I were able to put together. gives me a more unique pedigree non for 10 days, meeting with po- (Though, as a side note to anyone than most students. Some of the litical, social, religious, and youth in graduate school: if you are given most fun parts of that experience leaders and learning about Leba- the opportunity to write a book that included researching the docket nese-American relations. Neither is not your dissertation, realize that for court cases each year and re- of these opportunities would have 1) you will get behind on your dis-

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In Palestine

sertation and 2) your advisors will I joke with the other MAL alumni ed while you were in Model Arab not be happy about this…) in my life, of which there are still League? many, that my new job lets me As to advice? TALK. Just talk. The do Model Arab League, but “for I entered MAL, at 18 years old, dur- first time you speak at a conference real.” Through assisting with pro- ing the first year of the Second can be absolutely terrifying. Just rip gram design, coming up with fun War and the year both the Gaza off the band-aid. Get on the speak- acronyms for projects, and working Disengagement Plan and the ex- er’s list. Raise your placard during with ministries and local municipali- pansion of the West Bank Wall was moderated debate (longways, not ties, I am actively doing the work announced. These topics showed upright so your chair can read it, that MAL prepared us for. Further- up over and over again through and not before they’re done asking more, I believe I owe much of my 2011. Through the second half of for speakers). If you’ve done the academic success to the research my 20s and all of my 30s, the ongo- research and know your country’s and presentation skills I learned in ing Syrian conflict has been at the position, you’ll get into the flow. If the program. There is nothing like a center of many committee agen- you’re new to parliamentary pro- crisis situation at a Model to teach das. But ongoing struggles in the re- cedure, you’ll pick it up through the you how to research quickly, react gion also are discussed over time, help of your peers and chair. Just logically, and come up with solu- and I’ve been able to see the evo- immerse yourself in it. And know tions to an unexpected problem. lution of country policies on each you’ll make mistakes and will prob- Term papers, especially when you of them. You can’t go a year with- ably be corrected. Mistakes help us put them off like many students, out a desalination topic, and every learn. For whatever reason--course become equally stressful crisis situ- few years the status of the Hala’ib credit, passion for the region, your ations. And as much as no former Triangle, , or Mayo- friends guilted you into it--you’re professor wants to hear this, I was tte crops up in the ACJ. MAL has al- there. Make the most of those 2-3 able to churn out high quality re- ways been a program grounded in days. Oh, and also, buy our book. search and writing in just a few history and responsive to evolution days because of those skills. of politics in the region, and both How did your experience with Mod- of these factors are what make the el Arab League help you academi- What was an influential topic or is- program strong. cally and professionally? sue that you studied and debat-

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For instance, Yassir Arafat died the Are there any friends or connec- to be some of the most successful day before NERMAL 2004. We were tions you made while in Model women I know. I would not be who just in the early days of social me- Arab League who you still have I am today without the mentorship dia, and so none of us learned of contact with today? and support of my Converse advi- this until we saw the cover of the sor, Joe Dunn, with whom I keep New York Times while waiting for HA! Not a day goes by where I do regular contact. our flight from Spartanburg, SC to not talk to someone from the MAL Boston, MA. We were Lebanon that community, either personally or I have had the pleasure of having year, so this had clear implications professionally, and you can ab- peers and students from the pro- for our policy as well as the policies solutely bet stories from the “old gram as teammates at two of my of many of the attending schools. days” come up every time we’re jobs since earning my PhD. Being Under MAL rules, anything in the together. Any time something in- “conference mom” at the confer- “real world” that happens before teresting happens in the region, my ences I attend means that I am opening ceremonies is true in com- phone blows up with texts to dis- able to interact with students from mittee. The intelligence, poise, abil- cuss what’s going on. I have friends schools all over the country, and I ity to pivot, and brilliance of my fel- in nearly every state on the Eastern am so grateful to be able to share low delegates was on full display seaboard, and across the country my experiences and advice with that weekend, and I remember and the world, with whom I can them. I cannot imagine a time that conference experience being crash when I travel. I am still a part when I am not affiliated with Model one of the most dynamic in which I of a rich network of Converse MAL Arab League, and I’m so touched ever participated. alumnae that all were shaped by that the Council keeps finding new the program and have gone on ways in which to keep me involved!

LEARNING RESOURCES AND OPPORTUNITIES Kim Ghattas, Black Wave: Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the Forty-Year Rivalry That Unraveled Culture, Religion, and Collective Memory in the Middle East (2020)

Reviewed by Dr. Joe P. Dunn

This large undertaking is a discuss politics from the Maghreb, tour de force on the contempo- Egypt, Levant, Gulf, to Pakistan. rary Middle East. Emmy Award- While serving as a basic text of the winning Kim Ghattas, presently a interrelated happenings of the re- nonresident scholar at the Carn- gion, especially since the pivotal egie Endowment for International year of 1979, the book brims with Peace who lives between her na- stories about characters from tive Beirut and Washington, DC, dictators, to novelists, to ordinary has covered the region for twenty individuals. Slain journalist Jamal years for BBC and the Financial Kashoggi appears repeatedly Times. over the years in various situations. Ghattas is a master storyteller The well-crafted book is writ- of all the major players discussed who weaves history, geopolitics, ten for intelligent, informed lay- in the book, broken down by on the ground reporting, and deft men as well as scholars, and it is country, is very helpful. Books by insight into her account. The basic totally engaging; but the volume journalists often do not hold their underlying theme is the rivalry be- of information is so extensive and value over time. This will not be tween Saudi Arabia and Iran, but intense that it has the power to the case with this volume. It defi- the book goes far beyond that to overwhelm its readers. The listing nitely has staying power.

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