Mirjam Günther-van der Meij

Dr. Mirjam Günther-van der Meij is a Professor of Multilingualism & Literacy at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, appointed since June 2024. Her research bridges academic inquiry with practical educational solutions, focusing on multilingualism in diverse classrooms across the Netherlands' northern provinces. She holds a PhD in applied linguistics from the University of Groningen, specializing in bilingual adolescents' English proficiency.

Her work emphasizes valuing all languages—Frisian, regional dialects like Bildts, and immigrant languages—to enhance student motivation and classroom equity. Key contributions include:

• Developing translanguaging pedagogies for secondary education
• Pioneering cross-border digital language learning (e.g., German-Dutch Digi+ project)
• Advocating for multilingual teacher training programs

Research highlights include studies on minority language attitudes (Frisian), refugee transition programs, and cross-cultural literacy strategies. She leads the Multilingualism & Literacy research group under the Education research cluster, collaborating with schools, libraries, and organizations like Afûk and Fryske Akademy.

In 2021, she won the Campus Friesland Science Award for bridging societal diversity needs with educational practice. Current projects include the Frisian Language and Culture in Education lectorate (launching 2025) and dialogic learning methodologies.