Dear Michael Freese, welcome to AUCA family !

August 1, 2022

#staff#Dean#AUCA

His story with AUCA started in early 2017 when he worked at Bard College and visited Bishkek for a civic engagement seminar. Since then, Michael has been inspired by the warm, welcoming people of Kyrgyzstan, its cultural richness, and local cuisine.

Michael comes to AUCA from a distinguished career at the Bard College holding the position of Director of Bard Programs at Smolny (2012-2021). He earned his B.A. from Wheaton College (Massachusetts) in 2008 and was the recipient of a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Scholarship at Kalmyk State University. He holds an international Master's Degree in Russian and Eurasian Studies from the European University at St. Petersburg (2011) and an M.A. in Intercultural Education from St. Petersburg State University (2015). He has vast work experience in furthering international education in the post-Soviet space and speaks Russian fluently. 

“AUCA’s atmosphere reminded me of a little oasis right in the middle of Central Asia due to its special vibe and openness towards different cultures” adds Michael

Not long ago, Michael applied for the position of Dean of Student Affairs and accepted an offer from the President of AUCA, Jonathan Becker, to begin his career at AUCA. Michael’s mission is to encourage academic achievement and provide students with all the necessary resources, enabling them to further their personal development.
Michael believes that AUCA, due to its history and strive for academic excellence, offers numerous opportunities to incoming students. These include a quality education at par with international standards, a vibrant academic community, and solid academic  support. Furthermore, students learn the necessary soft skills to adapt to numerous challenges in the ever changing world.

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