Steven J. Clancy

Roles & Affiliations

Steven J. Clancy is a Senior Lecturer in Slavic Languages and Literatures and Director of the Slavic Language Program at Harvard University. He previously held the role of Senior Lecturer at the University of Chicago (2005–2012) and founded their Center for the Study of Languages.

Education

• PhD, Slavic Languages & Literatures, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2000
• MA, Slavic Languages & Literatures, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1997
• BA, Rice University, 1995

Research Interests

Clancy’s research focuses on cognitive linguistics, case semantics, and verbal semantics in Slavic languages. He employs quantitative methods such as Multidimensional Scaling (MDS) and corpus linguistics, and is exploring topological data analysis for Slavic language structures. His work also integrates computational tools like the Visualizing Russian project to enhance language pedagogy.

Publications & Awards

• Recipient of the 2005 AATSEEL Book Award for The Case Book for Russian
• Co-authored textbooks Вверх! Building on Your Foundations in Russian (Volumes 1 & 2)
• Published articles on Slavic semantics, second-language acquisition, and language pedagogy

Leadership & Contributions

Served as President of the Slavic Cognitive Linguistics Association (2007–2010). Developed curricula and digital tools for language education, including the Visible Vocabulary platform and collaborative Quizlet resources for textbook vocabulary.