ABOUT
Hello—I’m Randa Privett, founder of the Sarasota Academy of Cultural Studies. I’m a cultural historian and educator who designs engaging, multimedia classes in art history, modern European and Mediterranean history, and armchair travel. Since January 2024, I’ve taught 20+ adult-education programs across Sarasota, weaving together art, politics, and everyday life so learners see not just what happened, but why it mattered—and how it still shapes the world we travel today.
I hold a Ph.D. in Cultural Studies and taught for more than a decade at universities in Washington, D.C., including George Washington University and American University. My work has been supported by NEH-funded projects, and I’ve presented research at the Library of Congress. In Sarasota, I regularly lecture for ACE at Suncoast Technical College and for senior-learning communities such as Aviva Senior Life, Del Webb Lakewood Ranch, Glenridge on Palmer Ranch, and Plymouth Harbor.
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Teaching Philosophy
My aim is simple: make learning irresistible. I teach with a cultural-studies lens—connecting art, architecture, food, music, film, and memory—so every class feels like stepping into a living museum. Sessions are multimedia-rich, highly visual, and conversational, with plenty of space for Q&A. I want students to leave with new knowledge, yes—but also with confidence to travel, curiosity to read more, and language to discuss what they love.