Zsuzsa Szabo-Nyarady

Zsuzsa Szabo-Nyarady is a Contract Academic Instructor in the Department of Culture and Media Studies at the University of New Brunswick (UNB). She specializes in Russian language education and dance studies. Her teaching focuses on participatory methods, incorporating music, puppets, and games to simplify complex grammar. She emphasizes cultural integration through authentic materials like films and menus, culminating in end-of-term Russian cultural parties featuring food, music, and student presentations.

Education:

• Bachelor of Arts (UNB, Fredericton)
• Bachelor of Fine Arts (York University, Toronto)
• Master of Arts (UNB, Fredericton)
• Master of Arts (Norwich University, Vermont, USA)
• Ph.D. in Russian Language and Literature (ELTE, Budapest, Hungary)
• Diploma in University Teaching (UNB, Fredericton)

Research Interests:

• Stylistics of Russian literature (e.g., Anton Chekhov’s early works)
• Cross-cultural translation analysis (English/Hungarian/Russian)
• Embodied learning in language acquisition
• Integration of dance theory and practice in education

Awards & Recognition:

• 2018 UNB “Change One Thing” teaching prize
• 2018 Nominee for UNB Teaching Innovation Award
• 2012 Nominee for Allan P. Stuart Teaching Award

Teaching & Engagement:

Zsuzsa has taught Russian language courses (RUSS 1013–2023) and Culture and Dance series (CCS 2024–2026). Her pedagogical innovations focus on mindfulness, kinesthetic learning, and accessibility for diverse learners. She actively presents at conferences on topics like “Mindfulness in Second Language Education” and “Adaptations for Students with Special Needs.”