In an increasingly interconnected world, it is more important than ever to be culturally competent—to understand and respect diversity in its many forms. A solid knowledge of naming conventions in different societies can help avoid committing cultural blunders, causing offense, and even damaging relationships. Cultural competence is essential for facilitating effective communication and fostering inclusive environments locally and globally. The What kind of name is that? series brings a wealth of fascinating information about multicultural naming traditions to your doorstep.

Author Alma Barozzi will discuss the research she did for her two books on linguistics and naming conventions:  "What kind of name is that? Naming Traditions of Asia and Beyond" (published in August, 2024) and "What kind of name is that? European Surnames: Meanings and Traditions" (published in August, 2022).  She will then take the audience on a virtual journey through the different countries and highlight some patterns in naming traditions. 

If you would like Alma to research the origin and meaning of your family names, please submit them when you sign up.

 Alma Barozzi is a linguist, polyglot, and educator with special interests in etymology, onomastics, language acquisition, and comparative Romance linguistics. She is the author of two books on onomastics in the "What kind of name is that?" series—one on European surnames and one on Asian naming traditions. A native of Romania, she holds a PhD in Applied Linguistics and teaches Spanish at The Academy at Penguin Hall in Wenham. She is an avid world traveler who is passionate about building a kinder, more inclusive and diverse society.