This article was prepared, researched and written by Sakinah Niazi, Archives Student Historian on October 27th, 2025
Norwich University introduced the Russian language, literature and history on campus in 1958 to enrich the military school with all necessary education, especially around this time when the cold war was going on. The school did not just focus on language and lectures but also focused on introducing the vibrant culture in the form of Slavic festivals featuring performances of Russian, Georgian, Ukrainian dance, choir and folk songs and celebrations. The dance was directed by choreographer Nikolai Zhukovin and the choir was directed by Vladimir Morosan. Norwich University and Project Harmony, a non-profit organization focused on cultural learning, were able to sponsor and invite dancers and folk singers from USSR for the festival. These festivals were planned annually and were successfully held for more than 20 years. During the Slavic festival time, Norwich would also sponsor a trip in a van to the Ben and Jerry’s ice cream factory in Waterbury from the University
Additionally, the Norwich Russian School arranged a “Russian Olympics” during the summer as a way of helping the students take a break after a long and tiring session. Norwich Russian School also arranged study abroad trips for students to the USSR that offered experiential learning so that they could practice the language and have a first-hand cultural experience. These included an all-inclusive 14-day tour to Leningrad, Kiev and Moscow, sponsored by the Russia School that included the flight, meals, USSR visa, transportation, sightseeing and taxes. Norwich University had the opportunity to welcome at least 2 or 3 Soviet students who came to study and represent the USSR State Committee for Public Committee at NU. This also provided a way for American students to interact and learn.
Through these events, Norwich University was able to introduce a important cultural exchange that bridged the gap between the two countries during a hard time. It also allowed students to learn and gain diplomatic skills for central for leadership.
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