Russian Studies
Events & Highlights
Date: 14 Sep 2026; 1:00-2:30pm
Location: TBD
Vladimir Kara-Murza is a Russian politician, historian, and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist whose lifelong advocacy for democracy and human rights has made him one of the most prominent figures in the Russian democratic opposition. Imprisoned in Russia for publicly condemning the invasion of Ukraine, he was released in a landmark 2024 East-West prisoner exchange. He currently serves as Vice President of the Free Russia Foundation and frequently lectures on Russian politics, democracy, and international affairs at universities and policy institutions around the world.
Date: October 2026
Location: Language Hub; LA 020
At this fun and engaging event, you will have the opportunity to enjoy authentic Russian teas and sweets, connect with fellow students of Russian, practice speaking Russian, and test your knowledge of Russian history and culture in a Jeopardy-style game. You can form a team or join us as a supporter to cheer on the others.
Date: November 2026
Location: Language Hub; LA 020
Before he became a hockey legend, he had to overcome relentless training, personal setbacks, and impossible expectations. Legend No. 17 (Легенда №17) tells the inspiring true story of Soviet hockey star Valeri Kharlamov and the legendary 1972 Summit Series between the USSR and Canada. More than a sports film, it is a story of perseverance, sacrifice, and one of the greatest rivalries of the Cold War. Even if you're not a hockey fan, this is an exciting introduction to one of Russia's most celebrated modern films.
Date: 14 Jan 2027; 4:00-6:00pm
Location: CB 510-511
Join us for an evening of entertainment, games, songs, dancing, free food, and a visit from Ded Moroz and Snegurochka. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with students, faculty, and members of Utah’s Russian-speaking community while experiencing a unique cultural tradition.
Date: February 2027
Location: TBD
Description TBD
Date: March 2027
Location: Language Hub; LA 020
The Crew (Экипаж) is a thrilling disaster film that follows a young pilot and his experienced crew as they face an impossible rescue mission after a devastating volcanic eruption. Combining spectacular aerial action with compelling personal stories, the film explores courage, teamwork, and the sacrifices required when lives are on the line. A major box-office success in Russia, The Crew offers an exciting blend of suspense, drama, and modern Russian cinema.
This cultural community event, organized in collaboration with the UVU Office of Global Engagement, celebrates the tradition of the “Old New Year,” which is still observed in many Slavic and Eastern Orthodox countries. In 1918, the Soviet Union adopted the Gregorian calendar, shifting dates forward by 13 days. Rather than abandoning the old calendar date, many people continued to celebrate both January 1 and January 14 as the New Year.
Each fall semester, join us for Russian teas and treats while also meeting fellow Russian Studies students, practice speaking Russian, and test your knowledge of Russian history and culture in a Jeopardy-style game. Tea drinking has long been an important part of Russian culture and hospitality, traditionally bringing people together for conversation, stories, and a sense of community. Over a cup of tea, you will learn interesting facts about Russian traditions, literature, geography, and famous historical figures through friendly competition and interactive activities. You can form a team or join us as a supporter to cheer on the others while enjoying a relaxed and welcoming cultural atmosphere.
Sonata Coulter is the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State overseeing Russia, the Caucasus, and European Security and Political Affairs. A career member of the Senior Foreign Service, Ms. Coulter has extensive experience advancing U.S. national security and foreign policy objectives across Europe and Eurasia.
