History professor receives Excellence in Teaching Award from SCICU
Assistant Professor of History Dr. Christiane-Marie Abu Sarah, who serves as director of International Studies at Erskine, was one of 20 professors from member colleges recognized by South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU) at its 2026 Excellence in Teaching Awards dinner April 21 in Columbia, S.C.
Each year, SCICU honors outstanding faculty members from each of its member schools. Awardees receive a $3,000 professional development grant.
Abu Sarah holds a Ph.D. in History from the University of Maryland as well as a master’s degree in World History from George Mason University. Prior to joining the Erskine faculty in 2020, she worked at the Center for Global Islamic Studies and Center for World Religions, Diplomacy, & Conflict Resolution, leading academic programs in South Africa, Syria, Iraq, Ireland, and the Balkans.
In 2023, she launched the International Studies program at Erskine, and in 2025, she led the college’s first study trip to Vietnam, establishing Erskine as one of the few institutions in the state offering academic travel opportunities in Asia. Her courses in global issues, conflict studies, and Asian and Middle Eastern history have enabled students to engage with diverse cultures through music, food, folktales, and experiential learning.
In addition to her classroom teaching and study-abroad leadership, Abu Sarah has written two books, served as an editor for a peer-reviewed academic journal, and delivered a TED talk which has garnered nearly two million views. At Erskine, she channels her experiences into mentorship, she says, “helping students advance into law school, government service, and global careers.”
Dean of the College Shane Bradley sums up Abu Sarah’s valuable role at Erskine College. “Through her devotion to ensuring that our students have the most relevant and challenging experiences, Dr. Abu Sarah exemplifies what it means to thrive as an educator in a Christian liberal arts environment,” he says. “Her willingness to share her faith as well as her passion and experience with students makes her a fitting choice for this honor.”
Established in 1953, SCICU describes its mission on its website: “Our mission is to strengthen South Carolina’s independent colleges and universities through collaboration, governmental advocacy, fundraising, and public engagement so that every student may choose, afford, and earn an independent college education that fits their personal values, professional and social aspirations, and approach to learning.”
Pictured at top, from left, are SCICU President & CEO Dr. Robert Lloyd, Dr. Christiane-Marie Abu Sarah, and SCICU Board of Trustees Chair Ben Porter.
