Faculty Spotlight: John Turnbull
Motivated by a desire to see the world, John Turnbull’s journey to UNO has been anything but conventional.
With a formal background in religious studies, political science, and international relations, Turnbull has built a diverse career—ranging from washing dishes and maintaining tennis courts to managing finances for political candidates and producing podcasts. He has also traveled to Colombia, Lithuania, Thailand, and Cape Verde to teach English as a second language, edited over 100 books on religion, and written about sports, politics, and education for various newspapers and publications.
One of his most influential published works examines the story of Eudy Simelane, an openly gay South African soccer player who was tragically murdered amid a series of assaults in several townships. Turnbull’s commitment to Simelane’s family and his efforts to uncover the truth behind these attacks not only raised awareness of LGBTQ+ rights but also led to editorials in The Guardian and other international publications.
Turnbull’s deep reverence for language and culture has shaped his teaching approach: “My teaching philosophy has mostly been developed in contact with English language learners and emphasizes the importance of crossing borders, openness and safety, affirmation of identity, and the right to speak.” He aims to create an inclusive, welcoming classroom environment where “students regard themselves as learner-teachers and the teacher can be seen as teacher-learner.”
Through his advocacy, authenticity, passion for teaching, and achievements within and beyond academia, John Turnbull brings invaluable perspective and insight to our campus.
