Rima Salys

A leader in transformative education for over two decades, Rima Salys is Professor Emerita of Russian and Expanded Graduate Faculty at the University of Colorado Boulder. Her academic journey is marked by prestigious degrees in Slavic Languages and Literatures from the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard University, reflecting her deep-rooted expertise in the field. Throughout her tenure at the University of Colorado Boulder, from 1993 to 2014, Professor Salys made significant contributions to the academic community. She served as the associate chair for Russian and took on the role of interim chair of the Germanic and Slavic Languages and Literatures (GSLL) department. Her leadership was instrumental in shaping the department's direction and fostering a collaborative environment for both faculty and students. Professor Salys' research interests are diverse and encompass a wide range of topics within Russian studies. She has a particular focus on Soviet and post-Soviet cinema, exploring the cultural and historical narratives portrayed through film. Her work on 20th-century Russian art and culture provides valuable insights into the evolution of artistic expression during a time of significant political and social change. In addition to her work on cinema and art, Professor Salys has delved into the study of women's autobiography, examining the personal narratives that offer a unique perspective on women's experiences in Russian society. Her research on literary modernism highlights the innovative literary techniques and themes that emerged during this transformative period. Professor Salys is also known for her exploration of cinematic musicals, a genre that combines her interests in film and music, and the history of black expatriates in the Soviet Union, shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of Soviet history. Her interdisciplinary approach to research has enriched the field of Slavic studies and inspired countless students and scholars.