Eirik Saethre

Professor, Anthropology

Students describe Dr. Saethre as everything from a “theory slayer” to a “super queer legend” which are playful reflections of a classroom that is both intellectually rigorous and deeply human. As an anthropology professor at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, Dr. Saethre creates dynamic, discussion-driven learning environments where students are invited to bring their full selves into conversation with theory

Drawing on global ethnographic research,his teaching connects abstract ideas to lived experience through storytelling, student-led inquiry, and original research projects. A hallmark of his pedagogy is a commitment to ungrading, which emphasizes reflection, growth, and intellectual risk-taking over traditional assessment.

Grounded in decolonial, relational, and care-centered approaches, Dr. Saethre fosters inclusive spaces where students engage complex issues such as health, sexuality, and inequality with curiosity, empathy, and critical insight. Dr. Saethre’s teaching empowers students not only to understand anthropology, but to think with it, equipping them to navigate and shape the world with thoughtfulness and care.

“Every part of this course was valuable. Dr. Saethre is the first professor to help me understand theory and how I can actually use it in a valuable way. The course materials chosen by Dr. Saethre complemented each other perfectly, made every concept easy to digest, and challenged me in ways I have not been challenged before in a theory course. The moments when Dr. Saethre took over the lecture and helped us to understand the concepts we were misunderstanding and to add additional notes about the readings and their authors were the most valuable to me. All students (undergraduate and graduate) should be required to learn theory from Dr. Saethre. He is passionate, challenging (in the best way), and a badass who makes theory exciting.”

“Eirik! You are an amazing teacher!! One of my favorites I’ve had in my college experience. Thank you for creating the space you did that allowed us to have such insightful, open, and honest conversations.