Gold LEAF Institute Course Catalogue

In-Person

The course will be based on Eric Hooglund's memoir, still in progress, and will draw upon both his personal recollections and extensive historical research. The research includes interviews with community members and an in-depth examination of archival materials.

Maronite Christians are based in Lebanon and comprise about 65 percent of all immigrants from Lebanon in the period from the late 1890s to 1924. Waterville, Maine, boasted one of the largest Lebanese immigrant populations, at least 75% of whom were Maronite Christians

The first two sessions will explore the social, cultural, and historical aspects of this community, highlighting their migration experiences, integration into American society, and contributions to the local economy. 

The third session will feature a guided tour of the still-active St. Joseph's Maronite Church, a key institution in preserving the community’s religious and cultural heritage. This session's Location and time are TBD.

Additionally, participants can choose to enjoy a meal at the nearby Mezza Café, a Lebanese restaurant that offers a taste of the culture discussed in the course.

First session, October 27, 2025

Second session, October 31, 2025 

Third session, Joseph's Maronite Church talk and tour. The date and time to be determined.

10:00 am - 11:30 am

Location: Sessions 1 and 2, The Landing, Olsen Learning Ctr, Lower Level

Eric Hoogland has been a Gold Leaf member since 2014. He is a retired professor of Middle East politics, having taught the subject at Bowdoin College (1976-81) and Bates College (2006-2010), as well as at Oxford University in the UK and Shiraz University in Iran, among other institutions.