Svetlana Nuss
FNSBSD, UAF
FNSBSD STARTALK Program Director
Connect with me at svnuss@alaska.edu
Education is my natural habitat. I work with teachers of ELs in an Alaskan school district and teach Russian at the University of Alaska, but often feel like I never graduated: I love learning and – in the right mind – will never stop. I deeply believe every human being should live meaningfully, hence my passion for the higher purpose and meaning in everything I do: empowering teachers of ELs ultimately helps our students to know their lives matter and not only encourages them, but also gives the tools to express themselves, equipping students on their life journey. Having gone through the stage of a “newcomer” myself, I appreciate the distinct needs of our immigrant population, especially children - my personal experience adding empathy to my professional coaching, teaching, and research. For the past 20 years, Alaska has been my home. I serve my cat well, my dog takes me for regular walks no matter how cold it gets, and together we enjoy the long Alaskan summer nights full of light.