Russian scholars here to explore possible exchange program

Professors Elena Sergeeva and Alexandra Solonenko of the Department of International Business at Tomsk State University in western Siberia, are on campus for a two-week visit to explore a possible exchange program.

The Siberian professors teach English to university students pursuing degrees in international business. They are looking into working with the College of Education and its TESOL program (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages).

Eager to meet students and faculty in other disciplines as well, the professors will also learn more about higher education in the United States.

Dr. Ann Deakin, of the Geosciences Department, visited Siberia in the spring of 2012 on a Fulbright scholarship to do research and work on a project, “Geospatial Technology as a tool for Geoconservation in Siberia”. On her visit, Deakin spoke in Sergeeva and Solonekno’s classes about American culture and the English language.

Professors Sergeeva and Solonenko depart back to Siberia on Feb. 10. To schedule a meeting with the professors, contact Ann Deakin at ann.deakin@fredonia.edu.