September 1, 2005

LIVINGSTON, Ala.—For the next two years, The University of West Alabama will host a Ukrainian scholar, the winner of an Edmund S. Muskie Graduate Fellowship, as he works towards his master’s of science in continuing education. Denys Lupshenyuk, one of only 179 fellowship recipients from over 5,000 Eurasian applicants, arrived in Livingston in August after an eight-month application process to begin his studies.

Denys Lupshenyuk

Lupshenyuk, 25, earned three degrees in Ukraine, including a specialist degree, which is equivalent to an American master’s degree, in Russian, English, World Literature and Education. At UWA he hopes to learn more about the American education system and take that knowledge back to his university in Ukraine. According to Mary Pagliero, Chair of the International Programs Committee, the fact that Muskie scholars combine American learning with their own traditions makes this program a worthy endeavor.

“Students are required to return to their home countries at the end of the program,” Pagliero said. “This allows them to take what they have learned and use it within their own culture. Hopefully, they take back not only knowledge, but a feeling of goodwill after having lived and studied in this country.”

The Muskie program provides graduate students and professionals from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russian Federation, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan the opportunity to study in eleven academic fields. Lupshenyuk sees his stay at UWA as a chance to learn classroom and cultural lessons.

“I am grateful to the university for providing me with good advisors, great food, fun and other services,” Lupshenyuk said. “I have adjusted to the university environment, and I am not homesick because Mrs. Pagliero has helped me in many situations.”

As the only student on campus from the former U.S.S.R., Lupshenyuk’s stay adds to the richness of the university experience for all students and faculty. Pagliero noted that she hopes for continued contact and collaboration with Lupshenyuk when he heads back to Eurasia in 2007 to teach and manage educational programs.

For now, he will continue to adapt to his classes, on-campus apartment and Southern slang. In addition, Lupshenyuk must also adjust to the August Alabama heat.

“We have milder weather at home and no air conditioners,” he said. “It is so hot and humid here. I am very glad for air conditioning.”  

The Muskie program is funded by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State and administered by the International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX). Fellowship recipients, chosen based on several criteria including leadership potential, work experience, academic excellence and English proficiency, receive complete financial support from IREX.

Founded in 1835, the University of West Alabama is one of the oldest universities in Alabama. UWA serves the west central Alabama area and beyond through educational opportunity, academic research and public outreach.