The program does not rest on its laurels. It has launched several new projects to introduce students to Russia and the profound changes reshaping a country that is still a critical world actor. The global learning site in Moscow will begin operation in the spring of 2002. The special focus for 2002 will be on the challenges of constructing a post-Communist civil society. Moscow itself will be a major part of the experience, Lahti says.
Trinity s other evolving asset in Russian studies is the Hartford area itself.
The region is home to about 6,000 recent Russian immigrants, many of whom are clustered in Hartford s West End and in the neighborhoods of West Hartford just across the city line. It s not uncommon now to come upon groups of people speaking Russian on the streets of the city. In addition, a small commercial district with grocery stores and a bookstore has developed in West Hartford. There s also a small Russian Orthodox church within walking distance of the campus, Any says. The Russian community here is delighted to work with our students.