by Dr. Helen Myers, Russian Instructor at Columbus International High School 

In the fall of 2024, the Center for Slavic, East European and Eurasian Studies in collaboration with the faculty of the Department of Slavic and East European Languages and Cultures at The Ohio State University launched an exciting and enriching Guest Speakers Series, bringing university faculty and staff to engage high school students in thought-provoking and interactive lectures. The series provided a unique opportunity for students to explore different cultures, histories, and social issues, fostering a deeper appreciation for global diversity and cross-cultural understanding. With talks ranging from the landscapes of Siberia to the intriguing folklore of Slavic vampires, the series offered a fascinating blend of academic expertise and real-world experience. 

The series began with CSEEES outreach coordinator Alicia Baca’s presentation about her own experiences traveling and living in Poland last summer. In addition to sharing her personal insights from visiting Poland, Ms. Baca also discussed the rich traditions and cultural nuances of Polish society, including the important symbolism behind certain foods. She even treated the students to an authentic Polish cheese snack, oscypki, which the students eagerly sampled while she explained its traditional symbolism in Polish culture. 

Professor Arzutov took the students on a journey to Siberia, one of the most linguistically and culturally diverse regions in the world. He introduced the students to some of the languages spoken by the indigenous peoples of Siberia and to the harsh living conditions that the peoples of Siberia have learned not only to endure but to thrive in, creating a complex civilization in one of the most challenging geopolitical regions on Earth. Students learned about the challenges small communities face in maintaining their languages and cultures.

Just before Halloween, Professor Collins gave an engaging lecture on the history and mythology of vampires in Slavic cultures. The timing of the lecture was perfect, resonating deeply with students eager for scary stories and a deeper understanding of the connection between the Western and Eastern European cultural roots of modern Halloween folklore. Professor Collins explained the origins of vampire legends in Eastern Europe and the myths’ reflection of ancient societies’ fears of death, disease, and the unknown. The students were fascinated by the connections between these folklore tales and the cultural significance of death rituals and superstitions. 

Professor Brintlinger shifted the focus to a more contemporary topic: Russian immigrant culture in New York. She explained how the Russian-speaking diaspora has contributed to the cultural fabric of the city, blending traditions, languages, and lifestyles. The lecture gave students an insightful perspective on how immigration and identity intersect in the context of one of the world’s most diverse urban centers.

Professor Suchland’s presentation added a musical twist to the series by discussing Russian singer Manizha and her journey of self-discovery and the exploration of her identity. Manizha’s music, which blends modern pop with traditional Russian themes, became a powerful example of how artists navigate cultural identities in the modern world. The students were particularly drawn to Professor Suchland’s analysis of how Manizha’s music reflects her experience as a Russian immigrant and her exploration of feminism, nationalism, and personal freedom.

Professor Cretu concluded the series with insights into the country of Moldova, located between Romania and Ukraine. Through colorful images of the Moldovan life, videos of traditional Moldovan music and dance, and the stories of Moldova’s geopolitical challenges, the students gained a deeper understanding of a region often overshadowed by its larger neighbors. Professor Cretu emphasized the importance of small countries like Moldova in shaping European and global history.

The Guest Speaker Series has been a resounding success, with students engaging with each lecture and asking thoughtful questions after each presentation. The series not only broadened their cultural horizons but also encouraged them to think critically about the role of history, identity, and migration in shaping the world around them.