Less Commonly Taught Languages (LCTL) Professors and Supervisors

Wendy Payne-Craigمشاهده پروفایل

مدرس

University of PittsburghUnited States

Wendy Payne-Craig serves as the ASL Instructor at the Less-Commonly-Taught Languages Center (LCTL) within the University of Pittsburgh. Her role involves teaching and supporting the instruction of underrepresented languages, with a focus on American Sign Language (ASL). She is affiliated with the LCTL Center, located at 2816 Cathedral of Learning, Pittsburgh, PA 15260. While no formal education details are provided in the text, her position suggests expertise in language pedagogy and deaf education. Research interests are not explicitly stated, but her role implies engagement with second language acquisition methodologies and inclusive language instruction practices. No scientific awards, grants, or advised students are listed in the provided information. The LCTL Center’s mission aligns with her work in expanding access to less commonly taught languages, though specific lab affiliations or future projects are not mentioned.

پروفایل رسمی دانشگاه

Rasha Al-Hasimiمشاهده پروفایل

مدرس

University of PittsburghUnited States

Rasha Al-Hasimi serves as an Arabic Instructor (specializing in Levantine dialect) at the Less-Commonly-Taught Languages Center (LCTL) of the University of Pittsburgh. She is based at 2816 Cathedral of Learning, Pittsburgh, PA 15260. Her work focuses on teaching Arabic as a less-commonly-taught language, with an emphasis on Levantine dialect instruction. No academic awards, research publications, or student advisement roles are explicitly detailed in the provided information. Her professional activity appears centered on language education and pedagogical support within the LCTL framework.

پروفایل رسمی دانشگاه

Gretchen Aiyangarمشاهده پروفایل

دانشگاهی

University of PittsburghUnited States

Gretchen Aiyangar is a Teaching Assistant Professor and serves as the Language Programs Coordinator and Minors Advisor for the Less-Commonly-Taught Languages Center (LCTL) at the University of Pittsburgh. Her role focuses on overseeing language programs and advising students in LCTL-related academic pathways. She is affiliated with the LCTL Center located in the Cathedral of Learning building on Pitt's campus. No explicit research interests or scholarly publications are highlighted in the provided text, though her professional roles suggest a focus on language education infrastructure and program administration. Her responsibilities include coordinating language instruction and advising students pursuing minors through LCTL offerings. No scientific awards, grants, or advising records are mentioned in the text. Contact information includes the LCTL Center's address: 2816 Cathedral of Learning, Pittsburgh, PA 15260. She can be reached via email at gma21@pitt.edu or through the LCTL SharePoint (Pitt credentials required).

پروفایل رسمی دانشگاه

Marie Correa-Fernandesمشاهده پروفایل

مدرس

University of PittsburghUnited States

Dr. Marie Correa-Fernandes is a Wolof Instructor at the Less-Commonly-Taught Languages (LCTL) Center, University of Pittsburgh. A native of Senegal, she holds a Ph.D. in Public Policy Analysis from the Nelson Mandela College of Government and Social Sciences at Southern University and A&M College. With over a decade of experience, she taught Wolof as a Fulbright Scholar and lecturer at multiple institutions since 2009. Education: Ph.D. in Public Policy Analysis, Nelson Mandela College of Government and Social Sciences, Southern University and A&M College Research Interests: Dr. Correa-Fernandes focuses on second language acquisition, cultural awareness, gender and development, maternal health, child mortality, and mental health policy. She emphasizes language learning's role in fostering cross-cultural understanding and addressing global challenges. Affiliations: She is affiliated with the LCTL Center at the University of Pittsburgh, located at 2816 Cathedral of Learning, Pittsburgh, PA 15260.

پروفایل رسمی دانشگاه

Bancy Gichoviمشاهده پروفایل

مدرس

University of PittsburghUnited States

Bancy Gichovi is a Swahili Instructor at the University of Pittsburgh's Less-Commonly-Taught Languages Center (LCTL). She holds a degree in Linguistics and English Literature from the University of Nairobi and is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Applied Linguistics at Ohio University. Her academic focus centers on second language acquisition and pedagogy, with a strong emphasis on cultural exchange. Education: BA in Linguistics & English Literature (University of Nairobi) Current Studies: Applied Linguistics (Ohio University) Her research interests include innovative language teaching methodologies, cultural outreach, and the intersection of language education with African studies. She has collaborated extensively with the Center for African Studies on community engagement projects, such as cultural workshops for K-12 schools in Pittsburgh. Bancy’s professional achievements include a Fulbright Language Teaching Assistantship (2022-2023) and a cultural ambassador role through the Pitt Fulbright-Hayes Program (2023). She actively participates in interdisciplinary teams, including the LCTL and African Studies initiatives, to promote linguistic diversity and cross-cultural understanding.

پروفایل رسمی دانشگاه

Kofi-Nsiah Ghanmbaaneمشاهده پروفایل

مدرس

University of PittsburghUnited States

Dr. Kofi-Nsiah Ghanmbaane is an Akan-Twi Instructor at the University of Pittsburgh's Less-Commonly-Taught Languages Center (LCTL). He specializes in developing language programs, particularly in Akan-Twi, and integrates cultural practices into his teaching. His academic background includes a Ph.D. in anthropology from the University of Florida, where he also taught courses on West African history and Akan culture. Education: Ph.D. in Anthropology, University of Florida Research Interests: Dr. Ghanmbaane explores the intersection of language and cultural identity, emphasizing how linguistic practices reflect worldview and heritage. His work in linguistic anthropology and cultural preservation underscores the significance of language as a living cultural artifact. He actively contributes to the African Flagship Languages Initiative (AFLI), enhancing language education and cultural competence among learners. Teaching Contributions: Over five years, he has shaped the AFLI Program, focusing on immersive language learning and cross-cultural understanding. His role at LCTL centers on expanding access to underrepresented languages and their associated cultural contexts. Labs/Teams: Affiliated with the Less-Commonly-Taught Languages Center at the University of Pittsburgh, contributing to its mission of promoting global linguistic diversity.

پروفایل رسمی دانشگاه

Hanh Nguyenمشاهده پروفایل

مدرس

University of PittsburghUnited States

Hanh Nguyen is a Vietnamese Instructor at the University of Pittsburgh's Department of Linguistics, where she has taught for over 20 years. She holds a special connection to the Vietnamese language and culture, integrating community engagement into her teaching through guest lectures by her husband, Nghi Nguyen, M.D. Her work emphasizes cultural preservation and education. Affiliation: Less-Commonly-Taught Languages Center (LCTL) Location: 2816 Cathedral of Learning, Pittsburgh, PA 15260 Research interests focus on Vietnamese language pedagogy and cultural transmission. She is committed to community service, recognized by the 2006 'Manifesting the Kingdom' Award with her husband for their collaborative efforts. No publications are listed in the provided text, but her teaching and outreach activities highlight her dedication to linguistic and cultural education.

پروفایل رسمی دانشگاه

Vibha Shetiyaمشاهده پروفایل

استاد آموزشی

University of PittsburghUnited States

Vibha Shetiya is a Teaching Professor and Hindi Program Coordinator at the University of Pittsburgh's Less-Commonly-Taught Languages Center (LCTL). She holds a PhD and has held roles such as Hindi Instructor and Hindi Minor Advisor. Her career spans living in multiple countries, including India, Zambia, and the US, with Pittsburgh being her most recent residence. She identifies as a global citizen, emphasizing cross-cultural experiences in her professional identity. Education: Vibha Shetiya earned a PhD, though the institution and specialization are not detailed in the provided text. Research & Teaching Interests: Her work focuses on Hindi language education, multilingualism, and cultural studies, leveraging her diverse background to enrich language pedagogy. She advocates for accessible language programs and global cultural exchange. Grants & Advising: No specific grants or advising records are mentioned in the text. Labs/Teams: No affiliated labs or research teams are listed.

پروفایل رسمی دانشگاه

Sarah Jourdainمشاهده پروفایل

دانشیار

Stony Brook UniversityUnited States

Sarah Jourdain is an Associate Professor at Stony Brook University , serving as Department Chair and Director of World Language Teacher Preparation . Her work focuses on Foreign Language Pedagogy , Second Language Acquisition , and French Linguistics . Education : PhD, Indiana University (1996) Her research emphasizes action research and constructivist models in language teacher education, with a focus on collaborative learning , grammar instruction , and literacy development . She has pioneered programs in less-commonly-taught languages through multiple grants. Key grants include: UISFL Grant (2014-2016) for advanced language study StarTalk Grants (2014, 2015) for Arabic, Persian, Turkish, and Korean programs SUNY IITG Grant (2014-2015) for open Korean/Japanese courses SUNY-CRUE Partnership (2010-2013) for teacher candidate exchanges with Spain Awards : Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Palmes Académiques (2010) Jourdain has developed innovative pedagogical materials, including classroom activities for collaborative fairy tales , French phonetics , and Silk Road cultural exploration . She teaches courses ranging from Introductory French to Advanced French Stylistics and Business French .

پروفایل رسمی دانشگاه

Razima Chowdhuryمشاهده پروفایل

مدرس ارشد

Cornell UniversityUnited States

Razima Chowdhury is a Senior Lecturer in Asian Studies at Cornell University, specializing in Bangla language instruction and pedagogy. Her work bridges ESL (English as a Second Language) training with Bangla as a foreign language, focusing on immersive teaching methodologies and curriculum development. Education: M.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), Institute of Education, University College London (Centenary Scholar) M.A. in Applied Linguistics & English Language Teaching (ELT), University of Dhaka B.A. in English Literature & Language, University of Dhaka Her research emphasizes language acquisition strategies, particularly for Less Commonly Taught Languages (LCTL), and she has extensive experience in designing intensive language programs. She previously directed the Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program at Independent University in Dhaka and coordinated pedagogy at the South Asia Summer Language Institute (SASLI) in Wisconsin. Razima has received recognition as a Centenary Scholar and contributes to academic initiatives through her role in the South Asia Program. She teaches courses such as Elementary, Intermediate, and Advanced Bangla, alongside graduate-level offerings.

پروفایل رسمی دانشگاه

Öner Özçelikمشاهده پروفایل

دانشیار

Indiana University BloomingtonUnited States

Öner Özçelik is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Central Eurasian Studies (CEUS) at Indiana University Bloomington. He holds adjunct positions as Adjunct Associate Professor in Second Language Studies and Director of the Center for Languages of the Central Asian Region (CeLCAR). He serves as Associate Editor for Linguistic Approaches to Bilingualism . Ph.D. in Linguistics (McGill University, 2012) Ph.D. in Language Acquisition (McGill University, 2012) M.A. in Linguistics (University of Pittsburgh, 2006) B.A. in Foreign Language Education (Boğaziçi University, 2004, valedictorian) His research focuses on second language acquisition, phonology (especially prosody, vowel harmony), and Turkic languages. Key interests include prosody-syntax interfaces, L2 phonological learning mechanisms, and materials development for less commonly taught languages (LCTLs). Özçelik has published extensively on topics like Turkish vowel harmony, L2 prosody acquisition, and pedagogical materials design. His work bridges formal linguistics and applied language learning, emphasizing Universal Grammar principles in second language phonology. He has secured over $3.5 million in grants, including directing CeLCAR via Title VI funding. Awards include IU’s Trustees Teaching Award (2013, 2015) and the 2019 Language Acquisition Best Paper Award. He has edited volumes on Central Asian linguistics and co-authored textbook series for Georgetown University Press covering languages like Uzbek, Uyghur, and Pashto.

پروفایل رسمی دانشگاه

Walailawan Cunninghamمشاهده پروفایل

مدرس

Michigan State UniversityUnited States

Walailawan Cunningham is a Lecturer at Michigan State University's School of Linguistics, Languages, and Cultures, specializing in Less Commonly Taught Languages (LCTL) and Thai language instruction. Fields of Interest: LCTL, Thai Language, Linguistics, Language Education, Southeast Asian Studies, Cultural Studies Contact: cunni242@msu.edu

پروفایل رسمی دانشگاه

Shannon Donnally Quinnمشاهده پروفایل

دانشیار

Michigan State UniversityUnited States

Shannon Donnally Quinn serves as Associate Professor of Russian and Technology Specialist in the Department of Linguistics, Languages, and Cultures at Michigan State University's College of Arts and Letters. Her dual expertise bridges Slavic linguistics and instructional technology, driving innovation in language pedagogy through digital solutions and multicultural curriculum development. Her educational background includes a Ph.D. and M.A. in Slavic Languages and Literature from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, an M.Ed. in Instructional Design from the University of Massachusetts-Boston, and a B.A. in Russian from Oberlin College. Quinn's research trajectory evolved from Soviet science fiction dissertation work to contemporary focus on technology-enhanced language learning, with significant contributions during the pandemic-driven shift to online education. Quinn's scholarly impact centers on Developing award-winning open educational resources like Diverse Russian: A Multicultural Exploration Leading the RAILS project for advanced Russian listening skills Pioneering inclusive pedagogy models addressing linguistic diversity Integrating emerging technologies (H5P, DALL·E, planetarium systems) into language instruction Her publication analysis reveals consistent focus on crisis-responsive teaching methodologies, with increasing emphasis on cultural representation and AI applications since 2020. Major honors include the 2025 MAFLT LCTL Innovation Award, IALLT's Harold H. Hendricks Award (2023), and multiple MSU teaching excellence recognitions. Her grant portfolio features Department of Education funding for RAILS and Center for Teaching and Learning Innovation support for H5P integration. As Editor-in-Chief of The FLTMAG and webinar coordinator for IALLT, Quinn shapes national conversations on language technology. Her leadership extends to the Slavic, East European, and Eurasian Folklore Association and MSU's Inclusive Pedagogy Fellows program, where she develops frameworks for culturally responsive teaching in post-Ukraine invasion contexts.

پروفایل رسمی دانشگاه

Vathanak Sokمشاهده پروفایل

مدرس

Michigan State UniversityUnited States

Vathanak Sok serves as a Lecturer within the Department of Linguistics, Languages, and Cultures at Michigan State University, specializing in Khmer language instruction through the Less Commonly Taught Languages (LCTL) program. This position places Mr. Sok at the forefront of linguistic diversity initiatives, providing critical access to Cambodian language and cultural education for students at MSU. Mr. Sok's professional focus centers on Khmer language pedagogy and Southeast Asian linguistics within the LCTL framework. By teaching this strategically important language, Mr. Sok contributes to cross-cultural communication competencies and regional studies, supporting students in developing proficiency for academic, diplomatic, and professional engagement with Cambodia and Southeast Asia. The LCTL program at MSU specifically targets languages with limited instructional presence in U.S. higher education, addressing national security and global workforce needs. Prospective students interested in Khmer language studies should contact Mr. Sok directly via email to discuss course availability, proficiency levels, and cultural immersion opportunities within the program. While specific research publications aren't publicly documented, Mr. Sok's instructional role represents vital capacity-building in critical language education at the institutional level.

پروفایل رسمی دانشگاه