Find Academic Supervisors

Elizabeth ChackoView profile

Professor

• Migration Studies
• Transnationalism
• Urban Geography
• +5 more

Elizabeth Chacko is a Professor of Geography and International Affairs at George Washington University's Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, specializing in migration, transnationalism, and urban geographies. Her fieldwork spans the United States, India, Ethiopia, and Singapore, with research funded by the NSF, Fulbright Commission, and Social Science Research Council. She teaches courses including Migrants and the City and Geography of South Asia. Education: Ph.D. in Geography, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) M.A. in Geography, Miami University M.P.H., University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Dr. Chacko's research examines identity formation among immigrants, migrant integration in urban settings, and transnational-development linkages in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. She investigates how diasporic communities navigate cultural adaptation, occupational niches, and ethnic enclave formation while maintaining transnational connections. Her work emphasizes the spatial dimensions of migration through studies of 'Little Ethiopia' communities, gated neighborhoods in Bangalore, and pandemic impacts on migrant precarity. Her 15 most recent publications reveal consistent focus on migrant vulnerability, identity negotiation, and urban policy responses across diverse contexts. Key trends include analysis of temporary migration regimes, pandemic-era caregiving networks, and high-skilled diaspora engagement, with methodological emphasis on qualitative fieldwork and comparative urban analysis. Scientific Awards: Fulbright Scholarship (2013-2014) for Asian Indian integration research in Singapore U.S. Professor of the Year for District of Columbia (2006) Columbian College Freshman Advising Excellence Award (2002) Dr. Chacko directs significant research initiatives including a $500,000 NSF project on U.S.-Mexico border migration security (2022-2025) and co-authored a 2023 Organization of American States report on immigrant integration. Her grant portfolio includes Social Science Research Council funding for pandemic-migration studies, Ford Foundation support for climate change leadership programs, and multiple GWU internal awards for diaspora entrepreneurship research. As principal investigator on collaborative projects involving scholars like Marie Price and Sarah Blue, she leads interdisciplinary teams examining migrant reception systems and border geographies. Her policy-focused work directly informs urban integration strategies through partnerships with international organizations and municipal authorities across the Americas.

Van LacView profile

Associate Professor

• Educational Leadership
• Equity in Education
• Participatory Action Research
• +3 more

Van Lac is an Associate Professor in Educational Policy Studies. She holds a PhD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, a master’s from Stanford University, and a bachelor’s from UC Berkeley. Her research focuses on fostering racial consciousness among K-12 students and leaders through participatory action research with minoritized communities. Previously, she taught English for eight years in Richmond, California, in an under-resourced school serving Black and Latinx students. Education: PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, University of Wisconsin-Madison MA in The Art of Teaching English, Stanford University BA in English Literature, UC Berkeley Research Interests: Van Lac’s work centers on equitable educational leadership, particularly how leaders can collaborate with marginalized youth to drive social change. Her studies emphasize dismantling systemic inequities through participatory methodologies and critical race theory. Publications: Her recent work explores racial literacy among school leaders, the experiences of Women of Color faculty, and community-based approaches to educator training. Articles often address intersectional challenges faced by students of color, including racial taxation, pandemic impacts, and identity formation. Grants & Awards: No awards or grants mentioned in the provided text. Labs/Teams: No specific lab or team affiliations listed.

Claire RobsonView profile

Adjunct Professor

• Queer Studies
• Social Justice
• Elder Abuse in LGBTQ+ Communities
• +3 more

Claire Robson is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies at Simon Fraser University (SFU). Her work focuses on queer narratives, social justice, and the intersection of arts-based practices with community activism. She holds a PhD and has been recognized with awards such as the Xtra West Writer of the Year and the Lynch History Prize for contributions to LGBTQ+ scholarship. Robson’s research explores how storytelling and memoir can catalyze social change, particularly for marginalized communities. Her recent projects include the Indigo Survivors’ Project with QMUNITY, which documents and amplifies stories of LGBTQ2SA+ elders experiencing abuse. This work employs participatory action research to center survivor voices and inform policy and advocacy efforts. Her publications span academic articles, memoirs, and creative writing, addressing themes like elder abuse within LGBTQ+ communities, queer methodologies, and the role of narrative in resisting oppression. She has collaborated with organizations such as QMUNITY to bridge academic research with community-based initiatives. Awards include the Joseph Katz Memorial Scholarship for social justice contributions and the Lynch History Prize for advancing understanding of gender and sexual minorities. Her research emphasizes intersectionality, participatory methods, and systemic critiques of homophobia/transphobia in aging populations.

Lukasz KrzyzowskiView profile

Research Fellow

• Migration Studies
• LGBTIQA+ Studies
• Intergenerational Relations
• +6 more

Dr Lukasz Krzyzowski is a Vice Chancellor's Research Fellow at Edith Cowan University's School of Arts and Humanities. His work bridges applied sociology with policy impact, focusing on migration, LGBTIQA+ inclusion, and intergenerational care. He leads initiatives like the Rainbow Migrants program and co-designed the SPARK app for community support. Previously, he held roles at AGH University of Science and Technology and contributed to projects such as the UWA Social Care and Ageing Living Lab. Education: PhD in Sociology (Poland, 2012). Research Interests: Migration studies, digital inclusion, social justice, and innovative methodologies. Key Projects: Co-creating rainbow-inclusive aged care models (NHMRC grant), Rainbow Migrants Living Lab (Pride Foundation), and infrastructure studies on Ukrainian refugees. Grants: NHMRC Models of Care Grant ($22,388, 2024–2029) Rainbow Migrants Living Lab ($20,000, 2024–2026) Pride Intergenerational Housing Pilot ($45,486, 2024–2026) Awards: ECU Vice Chancellor’s Research Fellowship (2024) Polityka Science Award (2017) Polish Ministry of Science Mobility Plus Fellowship (2018–2019) His teaching emphasizes community-based learning and professional training, complementing his advocacy roles in boards like GLBTI Rights in Ageing Inc. and WA LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Strategy Reference Group.

Sian StevensonView profile

Lecturer

• Movement-Based Theatre
• Applied Theatre
• Disability Studies
• +5 more

Sian Stevenson is a Lecturer in Drama and Theatre and Senior Tutor at the University of Kent's School of Arts. Her roles include directing Moving Memory Dance Theatre Company and developing the Moving Well initiative. Her teaching focuses on applied theatre practices, with modules emphasizing ensemble work, workshop facilitation, and pre-professional performance project management. Her research integrates movement techniques like Feldenkrais and Alexander methods with digital technologies to empower marginalized groups, particularly older women, to tell their stories through performance. Education: Extensive industry experience spans over 25 years in theatre, opera, and performance art with companies including English Touring Opera and Grange Opera. Her pedagogical approach combines professional discipline with hands-on learning, offering students industry connections and placement opportunities. Key areas of expertise include disability inclusion, intergenerational collaboration, and the application of movement-based therapies in performance. Research highlights include the 'Making the Move' initiative funded by the University of Kent's Ideas Factory, exploring performance's role in medical rehabilitation. Her work with Doris, a bespoke digital projection system, exemplifies her innovative integration of technology into participatory performance. Current projects aim to establish sustainable Moving Well groups nationwide through an online training program. Grants and Collaborations: Recipient of Creative Campus funding for projects with seniors, Wellcome Trust support for 'Peas for Peace,' and partnerships with institutions like the Victoria and Albert Museum. Her performance works have been showcased at venues including the Gulbenkian Theatre and Toynbee Studios.

• Music Education
• Choral Conducting
• Engagement and Agency in Music Education Programs
• +3 more

Dr. Jennifer Lang is a Professor of Music Education and Director of Choral Activities at the University of Saskatchewan, currently serving as Interim Vice-Dean Academic for the College of Arts and Science. She co-leads the University's Health & Wellness Signature Area and serves as Pillar Lead for Music, Arts, and Wellbeing. Her roles include conducting the Greystone Singers, founding Aurora Voce, and organizing the uSing uSask Choral Festival. She has led Saskatchewan choirs in performances at Carnegie Hall and collaborations with the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra. Dr. Lang’s research focuses on engagement and agency in music education, informal learning, intergenerational singing, and music programs for newcomer youth. She has received awards such as the 2024 Publicly Engaged Scholarly Team Award and 2020 USSU Teaching Award. Her teaching spans undergraduate and graduate courses in music education, including supervision of capstone projects and teacher education programs. She has held academic roles at the University of Western Ontario and the District School Board of Niagara, alongside international adjudication and conference presentations. Artistically, Dr. Lang has conducted choirs across Canada and internationally, with notable performances at venues like Carnegie Hall. She actively engages in choral adjudication and clinical work across provincial and national festivals.

• Irish Traditional Music and Dance
• Arts in Health
• Ethnochoreology
• +3 more

Dr. Orfhlaith Ni Bhriain is a Lecturer and Course Director of the MA in Irish Traditional Dance Performance and MA Irish Dance Studies at the Irish World Academy of Music & Dance, University of Limerick. She holds a PhD (2010) and Master of Arts (1998). Her research focuses on Irish traditional dance, music-dance relationships, and arts in health, particularly Parkinson’s disease and intergenerational programs. She has authored books like Jigs to Jacobites (2018) and The Terminology of Irish Dance (2008), funded by The Arts Council. Education: PhD, University of Limerick (2010) Master of Arts, 1998 Research Interests: Irish step dance creativity, Diaspora music/dance, arts in health (e.g., Parkinson’s interventions), and education. Her work bridges performance, education, and community engagement. Recent Research Trends: Her publications emphasize dance’s role in health, intergenerational collaboration, and performing artists’ well-being. Recent studies explore community-based programs for older adults and psychosocial risk factors in dance. Grants & Collaborations: Collaborates with physiotherapist Amanda Clifford on aging and health. Her book Jigs to Jacobites was Arts Council-funded. Active in organizations like An Coimisiún le Rincí Gaelacha (as Chair) and Dance Research Forum Ireland. Labs/Teams: Leads the MA Dance Studies program and contributes to interdisciplinary arts and health initiatives at the Irish World Academy.

Jonathan LewisView profile

Lecturer

• Francophone Postcolonial Studies
• Memory and Representation
• Algerian War of Independence
• +3 more

Dr Jonathan Lewis is a Lecturer in French and Francophone Studies at Bangor University's School of Arts, Culture and Language. He holds a PhD from the University of Exeter (2012), focusing on Franco-Algerian literature, and previously taught at the University of Portsmouth and Liverpool. His research explores Francophone Postcolonial Studies, with emphases on memory, representations of conflict (notably the Algerian War of Independence), and contemporary prison narratives in French-speaking contexts. He is a co-founder of the Iles-Monde Francophone Islands Network and actively contributes to pedagogical initiatives like the 'Greener Modern Language Curriculum' project (2023-2024). Education: BA French (Exeter, 2006), MA Literary Translation (Exeter, 2008), PhD Conflict & Remembrance in Franco-Algerian Literature (Exeter, 2012). Research interests include: Colonial and postcolonial memoryscapes Prisons and carceral geographies in francophone contexts Mobility/immobility discourses in postcolonial migration Literary representations of the Algerian War Teaching roles include coordinating French language modules, Year Abroad program management, and supervising a PhD student. His funded projects include collaborations with graphic artist Anne Defréville to integrate environmental sustainability into language education. Professional networks: Society for Francophone Postcolonial Studies, Iles-Monde Network.

Aixa Rosario MedinaView profile

Lecturer

• Theatre
• Performing Arts
• Civic Engagement
• +3 more

Aixa Rosario Medina is a faculty member at Sarah Lawrence College (SLC) since 2019, affiliated with the Theatre and Civic Engagement program. She holds a BA from the University of Puerto Rico and has over two decades of professional experience in theatre, dance, and community arts. Medina teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in Theatre and Civic Engagement, including the Curriculum Lab component of the MFA Theatre program. Her academic and professional background emphasizes community-based arts initiatives. She created the Multicultural Performing Arts Program at School 16 in Yonkers and coordinates Salsa for Joy , a community-building program presented at SLC and the Barack Obama School for Social Justice. Medina's theatre career spans Broadway, regional theatre, TV/film, and choreography. She also owns a Pilates studio and has taught Pilates at St. Luke’s Hospital and for Broadway productions like Lion King . Medina’s work integrates artistic practice with civic engagement, focusing on multicultural education, intergenerational collaboration, and arts accessibility. While no specific awards or publications are listed, her community programs and pedagogical innovations reflect her dedication to socially engaged art.

Yehuda SharimView profile

Assistant Professor

• Film and Media Studies
• Cultural Anthropology
• Comparative Migration Studies
• +7 more

Yehuda Sharim is an Assistant Professor of Media and Performance Studies at the University of California, Merced, within the Global Arts, Media, and Writing Program. His work bridges film, poetry, and photography to explore themes of displacement, migration, and social justice. Born in Petach Tikva, Israel, he holds degrees from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (B.A.), Goldsmiths College (M.A.), New York University (M.A.), and UCLA (Ph.D.). His research focuses on the intersection of imagination, immigration, and community activism. Key works include *El Ojo Comienza En La Mano* (2022), a critically acclaimed documentary on farmworker artist Rubén Sánchez, and *Experiments in Freedom* (2022), examining youth labor in California’s Central Valley. Sharim’s films have screened globally at over 70 festivals, earning awards such as the Rockport Film Festival’s Best Short Film and UCHRI grants. Awardees of the National Endowment for the Arts and Hellman Fellowship, Sharim has also held residencies at the Obama Institute-Mainz and Virginia’s Coalition for Justice. His work emphasizes collaborative storytelling with marginalized communities, blending ethnographic rigor with poetic innovation. Recent projects include *Where’s My Coffee Cup?* (2025), addressing geriatric incarceration conditions, and *Flora* (2023), a meditation on collective healing. Sharim’s academic background spans creative arts, performance studies, and cultural anthropology. He actively mentors emerging artists and advocates for arts-based social justice initiatives in education and community spaces.

Tere PaniaguaView profile

Part-Time Lecturer

• Cultural Engagement
• Hispanic Community Development
• Arts Education
• +3 more

Tere Paniagua serves as Executive Director of Cultural Engagement at Syracuse University, overseeing La Casita Cultural Center and Punto de Contacto's art programs. She teaches SPANISH 301 and other courses, blending academic instruction with community-driven initiatives. With over 20 years of experience, she has developed bilingual educational programs, managed art exhibitions, and fostered cultural connections between Syracuse's Hispanic communities and the university. Responsible for La Casita's operations and Punto de Contacto's literary/artistic projects Designed SPANISH 402 (Hispanic Journalistic Practices) now part of Languages department Recipient of 2010 Chancellor’s Award for Community Engagement Her research interests focus on cultural preservation through arts education, Latino identity formation, and cross-cultural dialogue. She has organized exhibitions in NYC, San Juan, and Buenos Aires, producing documentaries like Eyes of Pérez Celis and Vinyl and Red Lips . Recent articles highlight her work in community-based art programs and symposiums on cultural conventions. Her awards reflect recognition for both artistic curation and educational innovation. Managed over $500k in grants for arts programs, including funding for El Punto Art Studio serving underserved youth. Advised faculty searches in Languages and Arts Leadership programs. Led collaborative initiatives with institutions like the Spanish Action League and the Smithsonian for projects like 'Latinos and Baseball.'

Jo Elfving-HwangView profile

Associate Professor

• Beauty Cultures in Korea
• Australia-Korea Relations
• Korean Popular Culture
• +4 more

Jo Elfving-Hwang is an Associate Professor at Curtin University’s School of Media, Creative Arts and Social Inquiry, specializing in Korean Society and Culture. She holds roles as Dean Global, Korea (Office of the Provost), Director of the Korea Research & Engagement Centre, and Major Coordinator of the Korean Studies program. Her research focuses on the body in Korean culture, including beauty work, cosmetic surgery, and K-pop masculinities. She has over 25 years of academic experience across institutions like Sheffield, Frankfurt, and UWA, emphasizing international curriculum development and leadership. Education: BA (Hons) and PhD from Sheffield University. Awards include UWA Teaching Excellence Awards (2014–2021), Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (2019), and leadership recognitions. She leads projects on Korean language education and has secured over A$2.5 million in research funding, including grants from the Academy of Korean Studies and Australia-Korea Foundation. Research spans beauty cultures, Australia-Korea relations, and pedagogical innovation. She has published over 50 works, including monographs and journal articles on topics such as aging bodies, corporate masculinities, and K-pop aesthetics. Current projects include a monograph on Korean beauty culture and initiatives to integrate Korean studies into WA curricula.

Louisa MatwiejczykView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Early Childhood Nutrition
• Evidence-Based Practice Translation
• Food Policy
• +4 more

Louisa Matwiejczyk is a Senior Lecturer (Teaching Specialist) in the College of Nursing and Health Sciences at Flinders University. She holds advanced credentials as an Accredited Practising Dietitian and Nutritionist, with expertise spanning 20+ years in community nutrition, food policy, and interprofessional education. Education: PhD: Understanding evidence-based nutrition practice translation in childcare (Flinders University, 2020) Bachelor of Arts (Biological Sciences) with First Class Honours (Flinders University, 1983) Postgraduate Diploma in Nutrition & Dietetics (Flinders University, 1985) Research Interests: Translation of evidence-based practices into early childhood settings Food policy development and implementation Interprofessional education and competency-based learning Nutrition interventions in low-income countries Awards: 2024 Senior Fellow (Advanced Higher Education Academy) 2020 Vice Chancellor's Award of Teaching Excellence National Obesity Prevention Award (2015) Teaching & Service: Coordinates 8+ undergraduate/postgraduate nutrition topics including project management, professional practice, and community nutrition Leads interprofessional student services and international mobility programs Chair of South Australian Nutrition Network and National ECEC Nutrition Group Labs/Teams: Active contributor to the Caring Futures Institute and collaborates with national health organizations like Dietitians Australia.

Anna Trębska-KerntopfView profile

Adjunct Professor

• Polish Language Teaching as a Foreign Language
• Intercultural Communication
• Glottodidactics
• +7 more

Dr Anna Trębska-Kerntopf is an Adjunct Professor at the Center for Polish Language and Culture for Polish Abroad and Foreigners , Maria Curie-Skłodowska University (UMCS), Lublin. With over four decades of experience in Polish language and cultural education, she specializes in teaching Polish as a foreign language to advanced learners, focusing on aphorisms, literary texts, and multimedia tools. Educational Philosopher: Developed constructivist approaches in Polish language instruction Methodologist: Pioneered use of intersemiotic translation and Gardner's multiple intelligences Intercultural Specialist: Investigates color symbolism and animal metaphors across cultures Event Organizer: Coordinates Bilingual Recitation Competitions and Christmas cultural programs Key Research Areas include: Integration of authentic Polish literary texts in language pedagogy Using paradoxical aphorisms for advanced language comprehension Developing cultural awareness through theatrical and artistic activities Content-Based Language Teaching (CBLT) for Polish heritage learners Multimedia tools in language proficiency development Cross-cultural symbolic analysis in language education Her publications demonstrate consistent focus on: 21st-century educational technologies Transcultural theater applications Historical memory integration in language classrooms Constructivist learning frameworks Polish diaspora education strategies Polonistika institutional history

• Pedagogy
• Axiological Education
• Teacher Training
• +5 more

Prof. Dr. Hab. Krystyna Chałas is a Professor at the Department of Didactics, School Education and Pedagogy within the Faculty of Social Sciences at John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin. Her work focuses on axiological education, moral development, and value-based pedagogy. She has led editorial roles in multiple publications including Signs of Faith and Memory and Encyclopedia of Pedagogical Axiology . Key research areas: Axiological Education, Moral Development, Teacher Training Editorial leadership: Editor-in-Chief of 7 major pedagogical publications Conference presence: Regular presenter at national and international conferences on values education Her awards include the Gold Cross of Merit (2011), Feniks Award (2015), and Lublin Voivodship Honorary Distinction (2017). She has contributed extensively to Catholic educational theory through 21 peer-reviewed books and chapters, including analyses of Pope John Paul II's educational philosophy.