Jennifer Berry-Rickert's Russian Experience

Moscow in Fastforward

2008-03-23T08:41:00.001-07:00

Today we saw Moscow, or as much that could be observed by 3 pm at which point we were due at the American Embassy for a reception. We began the morning in rush hour traffic with a congested metro ride to the Red Square. Before we walked inside the Kremlin walls we were able to watch the changing of the guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier. The video is available for you to view. Once at the Kremlin where we walked around the cathedrals and Armory. At one of the chathedrals, 3 acapella singers provided the most beautiful sounds. It was the first time since coming to this country where I was cold and almost miserable with the mist and snow.

20 Hour Trainride and Tongue for Dinner

2008-03-23T08:34:00.000-07:00

The return trip was 6 hours shorter as we did not ride the boundary between Russia and the Ukraine. I spent much of the trip catching up on all the missed sleep from my adventures in Taganrog. The other American Council's Teacher from California and I also spent some of our time on the train watching House reruns.

We returned to Moscow with little incident and met with the other 6 where we discussed our adventures at a Georgian Restaurant near Gorky Park. I had the misfortune of not listening to what was placed in front of us and tried everything that passed my way. This included tongue which I found quite agreeable. I will add that I was through eating after I learned of what was on my palate.

My last day in Taganrog

2008-03-22T14:54:00.000-07:00

Today was my last day in Taganrog. My morning began with a trip to Chekhov's birthplace. It is a small home preserved as a museum. Chekhov only spent the first year and a half in the home before money troubles forced the family to move around the area from rental property to rental property. Approximately 10 years later, Chekhov's father was faring better and they moved to another home with the merchant store occupying the first level of the home.

Anton Chekhov was born on January 29, 1860, the third of six surviving children, where his father, Pavel Yegorovich Chekhov, ran a grocery store. A choirmaster, religious fanatic, and keen flogger of his children, Pavel Chekhov has been seen as the model for his son's many portraits of hypocrites. Chekhov's mother, Yevgeniya, was an excellent storyteller who entertained the children with tales of her travels with her cloth-merchant father all over Russia. "Our talents we got from our father," Chekhov remembered, "but our soul from our mother."

Many of Chekhov's writings included Taganrog elements and his fondness for the city was not limited to his writings. His legacy also includes the establishment of museums. He did quite a bit for his home city. He did all he could to help Taganrog become a better, more beautiful city. Taganrog turned for him into some kind of a duty, as the writer kept sending books from his personal library, many of which autographed by their authors, and buying dictionaries, encyclopedias, scientific literature according to a wish list that he had established. Thus an extensive and comprehensive library was created with foreign language literature and reference sections. In many respects thanks to Chekhov's efforts, the Cape of Taganrog is now crowned with a Peter I The Great statue, created by the famous sculptor Mark Antokolsky (1903). Anton Chekhov not only took part in engaging the first-class artist to create the monument, but also sent out fund-raising subscription lists. He was also giving new exhibits to the Art Gallery and left the City his personal library.

I had the opportunity to view many of the influences that Chekhov helped to establish for his favored city, Taganrog including a museum devoted to the area and included relics from Tanace, the nearby Greek ruins, bronze age remnants, Don Cossack materials, and remembering the impact of conflict on human lives.

After the various museum and sites, I visited the Don Cossacks to discuss peace education and the role of religion in the classroom. The American versus Russian perspective of the theory of natural selection and creationism.

My time in Taganrog was at a close, and now it was time for the 20 hour train ride returning me to Moscow where I would meet up with the 7 other American teacher ambassadors to tour the Kremlin, go to the American Embassy, and then depart for the US.

March 15

2008-03-21T08:16:00.000-07:00

Today I observed a Chemistry Class of the 8th form. it was completely student centered and students were studying different types of reactions. To do this, they were placed in groups and moved through the different reactions (posted at the table) to record observations and answer questions. The students were all on task and not a single student asked, what do I do next. They were driven to succeed and it showed in the class! Another observation includes teachers. Many observe other's classes and work with them to improve or receive ideas on how to implement the practice after teaching the theory.

The next class I observed was biology and safety. This class was team taught with both a biology and health teacher. This was truly interesting as it tied their lesson's to real world and themselves. Students were actively engaged and again i saw cooperatively learning. One of the teachers explained how they formed their teams with both high and low ability students. All were on task and students were working well together. What else that was amazing- after groups presented their material to the class, the other groups determined their grade by holding up a red/pink piece of paper to indicate good, blue for okay, and green for poor. It was interesting and they were hard on each other.

I then observed a biology club elective course. This is not for a grade, but students may take this class and experiment and research on topics of interest. It was amazing to see students report on their own authentic research about the Azov Sea and NOT RECEIVE A GRADE for all the hard work that obviously went into their endeavor!!!

I also observed an English class by one of my Interpreters. It was phenomenal. The total immersion paradigm of English learning is working well in their schools. Students spoke English very well and the entire lesson was in English and centered on the importance of Chekhov to Taganrog and how it appeared in his literature.

Next I met with the student council representatives. These students were elected by their peers to discuss and build capacity. This was a wonderful experience and the students really had a say in their educational experience!!!

My final activity at school 28 included meeting with the teacher leadership. Here we had a wonderful open dialogue regarding the status of education, the impact of its value, teaching, and learning. I feel that I learned far more that they learned from me. They are truly inspirational in their work which is not always appreciated as viewed by poor salaries.

As we drove away from School 28, I was saddened and filled with feelings of loss. I had enjoyed getting to know the wonderful people that filled its rooms and hallways. I saw a dedicated and exemplary teachers and leaders who ensured that students received an excellent education. I saw students who wanted to be there and who wanted to learn!! I saw love of education and of each other. I admit that I did not want to leave such a special place.

For my last evening, we were off to Rostov to attend the ballet performance of Romeo and Juliet. It was fabulous!!!

Cossack Village- Starocherkassk and Novocherkassk

2008-03-20T12:39:00.000-07:00

Starocherkassk is a small island village near the River Don and is approximately 1,000 years old. It is the 'old capital' of the Cossacks and has a nice museum celebrating the Cossack's heritage and history. This was a relatively wealthy culture with little differentiation between lower, upper, and middle class since the warriors would return with expensive souvenirs including metal works, pottery, textiles, jewelry, and weapons. Men were are military serving beginning at age 18 who first studied and then served their community. Since this is an island community, homes were built differently than in other regions of the area to accommodate for flooding. Most homes had two floors, but the main floor was the second level. The last great flood was in 1994.

Here I am wearing a Cossack winter coat, hat, and sword. The swords had special grooves along the flat portion of the blade to aid in blood removal. Women's coats cost as much as the home in which they lived!

This village also had a beautiful cathedral that was built in 1706-1719 and was restored in the 19th century.

Next we travelled to Novocherkassk which is the new or modern capital of the Cossacks. This modern capital of the Cossack's is in the highlands and built in 1806. Here we visited another museum and cathedral. In the museum one could see Cossack items such as boats, weapons, clothing, as well as everyday items. There was also a display for China dish wares. It was explained that the major difference between the two included bright colors in Russian China patterns. One could also see the signature for Catherine the Great and a special coach that had been designed for her, but was never used. It was told to me that this museum is considered the best in the region. Again, we visited another beautiful cathedral and you can see it pictured. During our visit an Orthodox ceremony was occurring and I was able to observe it for a few minutes.

Cossack Capital

2008-03-14T10:26:00.000-07:00

Today I visited the old and new capital of the Cossack Region as well as 2 museums and 2 cathedrals. The cathedrals were breathtaking and I cannot wait to share the images. I saw the River Don, Catherine the Greats signature, and her carriage.
It was an impressive day!!!! I admit I am tired and am keeping this short. Will post more later.

Village School

2008-03-14T10:22:00.000-07:00

I visited a village school yesterday where they are known through all of the region as being one of the best. To begin my day, broke bread and dipped it in salt which is a tradition (Ukrainian I think). At this school, I saw many innovative techniques that included single sex education and physical education incorporated into the lesson. Students can either sit or stand for writing and are expected to change positions 3 times per class. In addition each corner has a set activity that students must also master.

There is a school psychologist who has one of the best mental health rooms I have ever seen. She works with both children and teachers to help them focus and love themselves. It was quite interesting.

This school had a history museum that focused on the area. There were maps, weapons, letters, and other historical items that had been collected and displayed in the room. I even had the opportunity to hold an American WWII gun that had been found nearby.

The principal rewards his teachers that exceed expectations with monetary gifts and gets rid of those that do not. He seemed like a good instructional leader who cared about his students and staff!!!

I also met with students where they presented me with a cherry goblet that a teacher made and 2 paintings by students. It was a wonderful meeting and he gave me much to think about. Will discuss more when there is time.

My day was recorded by a film crew and I was interviewed as well. Hopefully I won't sound too nervous or silly. It was a great day filled with schools, school leaders, and educators who want to educate the whole child. Truly mind and body to ensure success in school!!

Murphy's Law

2008-03-14T10:15:00.001-07:00

It was a day of unexpected events. My hostess Olga and translator Natasha picked me up from my host family at 8:30, by 9:15 the driver of our car received a speeding ticket despite the fact that we were in a 'special' car. However, he was speeding- I could see the speedometer. Then 15 minutes later while we are still speeding along, the engine died. So our drive coasted us to the curb and could not get it started. Barely 5 minutes passed before a gentleman pulled over to offer assistance and tied our car to his. However, Murphy's Law strikes for the 3rd time and his car decides to break down. After much fiddling and pushing, the two drivers got the 2nd car started and he pulled us to a mechanic in a village a few miles away.

We then waited for a replacement car to takes us to Rostov and the Teacher's Institute where I met a former Russian Teacher of the Year Anya and the geography department chair. It was a pleasant afternoon, but Murphy was not through striking.

We then headed to the tourist registration building only to find out that they closed at 12. Olga spoke with a few people and they gave us the paperwork, but we had to make copies. So we crossed the street only to find that their copier was out of order.... After 2 hours the paperwork was completed, copied, and filed. There were many difficulties because my visa is for business and not general tourist.

It was a late day with much waiting. I was thankful for the help we received at the registration. Finally it was time for fun and I went ice skating and played ping pong. :)

Day 4

2008-03-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

Today I spent only two hours at School 28. I observed two lessons: one on the city of Taganrog focuses on the theme of the Role of Tagnarog on Chekhov's life and the influences in his writings. (The students gave me a book of literature by Chekhov.) The other was the second year students in their English lesson. I am amazed by both. The students were wonderful to watch. Students were attentive, focused, and NO CELL PHONES. They began class by reciting a character building poem that reminded them not to run the in halls, write on the walls. I loved it. This school really seems to focus on educating the whole child and not just the basic knowledge needed for societal input.

Then I went to Taganrog State Pedagogical Institute where I spoke with students and faculty. I enjoyed myself, but was asked the question about American propaganda in World War II and why our history focuses on America and not Russia. I am sure she did not appreciate my response, but I spoke honestly about my views of written history and the need for many historical artifacts to determine the 'truth'. I was presented with a 50th Anniversary lapel pin from the administrators. I shall treasure it!!!

Following this meeting I went to Taganrog's White House where I met with the town authorities and city officials. They presented me with a plaque commemorating the city, a book about the city in both Russian and English.

Then I met with biology and chemistry teachers who shared their classroom techniques, view, and awards. I can say that I was in a room with great teachers and cannot wait to share what I have learned. It was quite fascinating. Teaching is quite a competitive profession in Russia as teachers want to be the best for their students, and the government rewards those teachers with grants to further improve their skills and classroom equipment. They presented me with chemistry textbooks. I love that they study 4 years of chemistry!!!

Following the teacher's meeting, I met with the School Council. Where I could talk about conflict resolution and my ideas and beliefs on teaching. It was a wonderful meeting followed by the presentation of pink tulips that are sitting in front of me now. I took one of the buds and am pressing it in a book.
Until tomorrow.
J

School Day

2008-03-10T10:31:00.001-07:00

Today I visited my first school, School Number 28 in Taganrog. Olga came to the flat of my host family to escort me to her school. Much to my surprise, when I walked in the door of the school, there was a television crew, some of the students, and the administration to personally greet me. I must say that I felt so special. It is tough to be away from family, Zeus, and friends, but this town has done a splendid job of making me feel welcome and special.

Following the greeting I met Olga's class and then observed two history lessons. The teachers were both exemplary teachers who engaged their students, and provided a diversity of practices so that all students seemed engaged in the lesson.

After the lessons, we sat and had coffee in the director's office where we could begin our dialogue that I hope will continue long after my departure.

Three English students (interpreters), Director, Olga, Sasha (interpreter) and I went to another school to learn about the space exploration museum. This museum is composed of artifacts that students (mostly male, but two famous females were members) designed and produced. I have many photographs, but will have to share them with you at a later time.

I then went back to the school for more professional dialogue and lunch. It was extremely interactive with questions and answers from both sides. Luckily, I did have a short break following this meeting and strolled the streets of Taganrog with Olga and Sasha where I met some of the parents of Olga's students.

There was a cultural ceremony prepared for after school in which I learned about the patriotic songs of Russia and listed to students of school 28 perform them. In addition there was a veteran of WWII that I met and he presented me with a jar of Russian Honey. He said it can cure all ills!! I took so many pictures after the ceremony that I felt like a ROCK STAR!!! I also signed autographs for several minutes (I probably gave more signatures in the 20 minutes than I have ever signed in my life. Some of the students even had me sign their hands!!!!) Members of the sports club showed me medieval costumes from 8th-16th century and their fighting techniques. The chain mail was so heavy that I could bare lift it. I cannot imagine trying to move in such regalia much less fight.

All in all it was a wonderful day and I look forward to tomorrow's adventures.

What a fantastic day!!

2008-03-09T07:31:00.000-07:00

It has been a wonderful and special day. My host Olga has outdone herself. This morning I had a private tour at Chekhov's Art Museum (he funded it). This building houses 6,000 works of art, but only shows 100 or so at a time. There were works of Catherine the Great, Peter the Great, Alexander I, landscapes, oceans, fairy tales. It was really a wonderful site. In celebration of the Holiday, there was an informal lesson for children filled with story telling and music. I was able to see a variation of musical chairs, but with soap.... I was laughing so hard. Children are children no matter where they are. My hostess was gracious and allowed me to take photos of everything in the building and was given a souvenir to take back with me. It was a pleasure to be around such history and to have it brought to life. The children all wanted their picture with the 'American' and for me to give autographs. I felt like a superstar!!!

Afterwards we strolled through the streets with a carnival type atmosphere, had a delicious lunch and then went to a cake shop next door where they gave me a cake to take back to my host family. Evidently they are known world wide. Since we are eating it tonight, I will keep you posted on the taste. If it tastes anything like it looks I am in for a real treat.

Following lunch and stroll, I was taken to the Taganrog Riding School where I was able to ride one of their horses. There is something invigorating about seeing young girls in love with horses. I had so much fun that I am sure there is still a smile on my face. I will post pictures when I can, but for now there is not enough time. I will say that I am quite sure that my body will be sore for the next several days since I have not posted so much in YEARS!!!
I have a birthday party to attend and must get off the computer and be social.
Pocka- (phonetic spelling of course)

Around Taganrog

2008-03-08T10:57:00.000-08:00

Today, I visited an Orthodox church built by Catherine the Great whose biography I am currently reading. Being here is completely bringing history alive! I also visited the site of Peter the Great's fortress and the bronze statue that was resurrected in its place, the Sea of Azov, Chekhov's theatre for an opening night performance, the oldest cemetery in Taganrog, Chekhov's square (also called the red square). Olga was a fantastic host and had a van and driver take us and Natasha (Natalie- English teacher who is also the translator) about town. We visited several outdoor markets, and although everyone says this is a small town. The crowds certainly do not make it feel small. It feels more like DC in rush hour.

Today is a national holiday called Women's Day and flowers abound as the men present flowers to the women in their lives.

Zdrastvuite!!

2008-03-07T23:09:00.000-08:00

(phonetic spelling of hello)
I had a wonderful nights rest and today will go out on the town of Taganrog with my host Olga. Currently I am staying with Tatyana and her family. She has two of the most beautiful girls one is 4th grade and the other 10th. They study English and have been chatting with me.
The route here was definitely one not travelled by many Americans. Out plane from Frankfurt to Moscow was cancelled and we had to run to the other side of the aiport to catch the replacement. Our plane was 2 hours late getting into Moscow and we literally had to run with our bags to the train station. We originally had a van to take us, but were caught in a traffic jam and had to take the metro. Believe me when I say it is way more crowded than DC's metro. (Not to mention doing it with large bags). I think I may have taken out a couple of people dragging it behind me and- minding the gap. Escalators were spotty and I actually broke into laughter trying to get my big bag, Ruth's backpack, and my purse up 2 flights of stairs. If only it was on film because it was a sight to see.
Well it is time for me to head out to explore Taganrog for the first time. (I arrived at 9 PM last night and could see very little).
Will post more with pictures.

After 3 days of travelling...

2008-03-07T10:52:00.000-08:00

I have finally made it to Taganrog. The trip was long, but I believe it is well worth the wait. Johanna (from California) and I shared a train cart down although her departure from the train was earlier than mine. I think from here on out I will have more sympathy with my foreign exchange students. I will post more later, but now is a time for rest!!!
Cheers

Away We Go

2008-03-05T11:05:00.000-08:00

Shortly I will be departing for the airport and after receiving my itinerary, I have a correction. I have a 25 hour train ride from Moscow to Rostov and then a short car ride to Taganrog. I know many of my colleagues are a bit nervous about travelling through Russia alone. I do have one bright spot. A fellow teacher from California will have the same train ride as I. At least I have a companion to whittle through the long, long, long ride. I am sure by the end we will know each other's life histories pretty well.
Happy trails. Next time I blog to you I will in Russia!!

I'm leaving on a jet plane.......

2008-03-03T17:39:00.000-08:00

My bags are packed and all items are stowed, and Little Einstein has a front row seat for the adventure. I am the first Einstein Fellow to embark on a journey since his incorporation into the group, so I get to break him in- Russian style!
I just hope that customs will not be too difficult with 25 small bottles of Vermont maple syrup..... My fingers are crossed that the bottles which have been bubble wrapped, placed in a plastic bag, stored in a box, that has been encased in another plastic bag (can you say OCD?) are enough to suppress any casualties of traveling.
I will keep you posted!!

Getting Closer.....

2008-02-29T08:27:00.000-08:00

With just a weekend and a couple of workdays separating, I am quite excited. I have bought my gifts for the classrooms and gifts for my wonderful hosts. At the last minute I have decided not to pack my laptop, but instead will rely on my host Olga for my technological needs. Other items I am sure a subject to change on a moments whim. Now if I could just reduce the number of pairs of shoes....
There is so much to do before now and then. I will have to remember one thing... BREATHE.
Too bad I cannot pack my Zeus E. Caboose who would love to be able to travel with me!!!

Planning and Preparation

2008-02-22T13:08:00.000-08:00

The date is rapidly approaching and plans are solidifying, at least on paper. For my stay, I am to be hosted by fellow science teacher Olga Chichigina. Olga is from the city of Taganrog in Rostov region. She graduated from the Taganrog State Pedagogical Institute with a diploma in Primary Education. Olga teaches Geography at Secondary School #28 and has been working as a teacher since 1995. On several occasions, Olga was awarded Certificates of Merit of the Russian Federation Ministry of Education and Science for preparing student winners of contests and Olympiads. Olga has been published several times and has written on curriculum development. Olga is interested in educational systems of other countries and the types of projects students do in these systems. I know that we will have a splendid time together and that she has much to offer. Much more that I can obtain in just two short weeks.
My trip itinerary is as follows:

March 7, Friday
1:50 pm Arrival to Rostov (travel to Taganrog by car)
1:00 pm Arrival at Tatyana Kovalyova’s
4:30 pm - 5:00 pm Show Jennifer how to get by bus from the apartment to School 28
5:30 pm Dinner at Tatyana Kovalyova’s house

March 8 Saturday -Holiday-
9:00 am-12:00 pm City excursion (monuments to Peter I, A. Chekhov and other famous people; churches and other sights)
12:00 pm-1:00 pm Lunch (Cafe “Dyaday Vanya”)
1:00 pm-3:00 pm The Alferaki Museum (local history museum)
6:00 pm-8:00 pm Performance at Chekhov’s theatre

March 9, Sunday
10:00 am-12:00 pm Art Gallery
12:00 pm-1:00 pm Lunch (Cafe “Krasniy Mack”)
1:00 pm-4:00 pm City excursion (Chekhov’s sites, the Town-planning Museum)
4:00 pm-5:00 pm Visit to the Horse Riding School (horseback riding)
6:00 pm Dinner at Tatyana Kovalyova’s

March 10, Monday
8:00 am-8:40 am Visit to School № 28. Meeting with the principal of the School, T.N. Ternovaya.
8:50 am-10:30 am Class observation at school 28
11:00 am-1:00 pm Meeting with Town authorities and the Department of Education
1:00 pm-2:00 pm Lunch
2:00 pm-4:00 pm Science Departmental Teachers’ Meeting
4:00 pm-4:30 pm Coffee-Break
4:30 pm-5:30 pm Demonstration performance at school 28 (Members of Town Youth Club “Patriot”

March 11, Tuesday
8:00 am-9:30 am Class observation at school 28
9:45 am-1:00 pm Visit to Taganrog State Pedagogical Institute. Meeting with Institute teachers and students.
1:00 pm-2:00 pm Lunch
2:00 pm-4:00 pm Observation of the English Language Club and Biology Club
4:00 pm-4:30 pm Coffee-Break
5:00 pm-7:00 pm Conference with members of School Council

March 12, Wednesday
Rostov
9:00 am-10:00 am Travel to Rostov
10:00 am-12:00 pm Visit to The Department of evaluation and upgrading of teachers’ proficiency
12:30 pm-2:00 pm Lunch at the Russian Restaurant (peculiarities of Russian Cuisine)
2:00 pm-4:00 pm City excursion. Visit to Ice Skating Centre and Shooting-range
4:00 pm-5:00 pm Lunch
5:00 pm-7:00 pm Performance at “Belly Royal’”(Rostov Drama Theatre)

March 13, Thursday
9:00 am-12:00 pm Visit to a village school (Anastasiyevskaya School).Class observation
12:00 pm-1:00 pm Lunch
1:00 pm-3:00 pm Meeting with school teachers and students
3:00 pm-4:00 pm Returning to Taganrog
6:30 pm-7:00 pm Web Meeting with the University, Montana, USA

March 14, Friday
8:30 am-1:00 pm Old capital of the Cossacks, Starocherkassk
1:00 pm-2:00 pm Lunch
2:00 pm-6:00 pm Modern capital of the Cossacks, Novocherkassk

March 15, Saturday
8:00 am-10:30am Class observation at school 28
10:30 am-11:00 am Coffee-Break.
11:00am-12:00 pm Meeting with School Council
12:00 pm-1:00 pm Lunch
1:00 pm-3:00 pm Meeting with school administration and teachers

March 16, Sunday
10:00 am-12:00 pm Meeting with the Cossacks
12:00 pm-1:00 pm Lunch
4:30 pm Departure for Rostov by car, then for Moscow by train

Quite exciting!!!

In preparation-

2008-02-13T11:33:00.000-08:00

With less than a month to go before my big departure, I have been running around both Washington, DC and Nashville, TN to prepare for my trip. My nerves and excitement are both escalating, but I look forward to my adventure in which I am travel to Taganrog, Russia after a brief stay in Moscow via a layover in Frankfurt, Germany.
I now have a 'cubby' in my small Capitol Hill apartment dedicated to items that must accompany me on my trip. This includes: adapter/converter, teacher-esque items for classrooms, teaching materials related to American currency, books about Tennessee, items from both Vermont and Tennessee (since I am teacher from Nashville, TN- Stratford High School, but am working for the VT senator as an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator), and other odds and ends. I know this list will grow and then decrease as I further refine my needs, but it is a pleasant start as I look towards next month.
Taganrog is a seaport city on the Sea of Azov which is the northern part of the Black Sea in the Rostov oblast. A 16 hour train ride will move me from Moscow to Taganrog. The city was officially founded by Peter I the Great on September 12, 1698 and it is closely connected with the history of the Russian Empire. Taganrog is also the birthplace of Anton Chekhov a Russian playwright and short-story writer.
My trip is hosted by the American Councils for International Education (an international not-for-profit organization working to advance education, research, and mutual understanding across the United States and the nations of Eastern Europe, Eurasia, and Southern Europe). American Council's mission is to foster democratic development and civil societies by advancing education and research, cultivating leadership, and empowering individuals and institutions through learning.
Since its founding, American Councils has administered more than 30 exchange and training programs between individuals and institutions in the U.S. and the countries of Eastern Europe, Eurasia, Afghanistan, and the Balkans. American Councils develops collaborative and partnership programs, administers fellowship programs on behalf of the U.S. government and private funders, consults on project design and innovative education programs, and actively contributes of the development of Eurasian language and area studies in the U.S.