UToledo Scholar to Lead Linguistic Association of Canada and US

UToledo Scholar to Lead Linguistic Association of Canada and US

Dr. Gaby Semaan, an associate professor in The University of Toledo Department of World Languages and Cultures, has been elected president-elect of the Linguistic Association of Canada and the United States. He will begin his term as president in 2028.

Founded in 1974, LACUS advances the study of language and communication by encouraging the exchange of ideas across linguistic disciplines. The association brings together scholars from North America and around the world to promote interdisciplinary research and dialogue.

The election extends Semaan's international leadership in communication and linguistics. He also serves as president of the International Association for Intercultural Communication Studies.

"It is an honor and a responsibility to be elected to this role," Semaan said. "LACUS has a long tradition of advancing interdisciplinary and innovative research on language, culture and communication. I look forward to serving the organization while continuing to represent UToledo and its commitment to excellence in teaching, research and global engagement."

Semaan has served for several years as the association's conference program chair, helping to shape its annual conferences and support collaboration among researchers from around the world.

Dr. Kasumi Yamazaki, an associate professor at UToledo and assistant chair of the LACUS conference program, said the election reflects the confidence scholars across the field have placed in Semaan's leadership.

"Dr. Semaan was nominated by colleagues from other universities and countries and by former LACUS presidents," Yamazaki said. "His service as conference program chair has demonstrated his leadership, dedication and vision. While he remains humble about this achievement, it is a powerful testament to his reputation and expertise and to the academic leadership we have at The University of Toledo at both national and international levels."

Dr. An Chung Cheng, a former chair and the current program director in the Department of World Languages and Cultures, said Semaan's election comes as no surprise.

"Dr. Semaan's leadership, creativity and commitment to excellence are evident in his teaching, research and international service," Cheng said. "His election reflects the international respect he has earned within the profession and demonstrates that faculty at the Department of World Languages and Cultures and our R1 University are making influential contributions and gaining recognition worldwide for their expertise."

As LACUS president, Semaan will help guide one of North America's leading interdisciplinary linguistic associations while strengthening UToledo's connections with scholars and institutions around the world and elevating the University's national and international profile.