Students Explore Ukrainian History Through Global Classroom Exchange

Students from Seton Hall University and Ukrainian Catholic University came together for a live, international classroom exchange on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, to explore medieval Eastern European history as part of the Global Talk series between the two institutions.

The joint session connected students enrolled in Nathaniel Knight, Ph.D.’s course on Kyivan Rus’ and Muscovy at Seton Hall with students from Halyna Kurochka’s class at Ukrainian Catholic University (UCU). Held via Microsoft Teams, the discussion focused on interpretations of Kyivan Rus, the Mongol invasion and the enduring influence of medieval history on contemporary Ukrainian identity.

The exchange builds on the formal Memorandum of Understanding signed by Seton Hall and Ukrainian Catholic University in 2025, which established a framework for sustained academic collaboration, faculty engagement and student-centered learning initiatives. This Global Talk session reflects the growing integration of that partnership directly into the classroom.

“The class was truly engaging and meaningful,” said Kurochka. “My students really enjoyed the conversation and mentioned how attentive and respectful the American students were, especially toward their ideas and opinions. Despite a few minor technical glitches, everything went very well overall.”

During the session, UCU students presented on the Mongol invasion of Kyivan Rus and participated in small-group breakout discussions with their Seton Hall peers. The format allowed students to compare historical narratives, challenge assumptions found in Western textbooks and reflect on how medieval history continues to shape national consciousness.

“The class within Global Talk was an excellent opportunity to spread the word about Ukraine and true Ukrainian history,” said Nataliia Kryvoberets, a student at Ukrainian Catholic University. “It was a valuable experience for both sides, and I look forward to meeting again with the students of Seton Hall University.”

Other UCU students echoed the significance of the exchange. Solomiia Surmach noted the depth of preparation shown by Seton Hall students, while Iryna Severina emphasized the importance of presenting Ukrainian historical perspectives to international audiences, particularly in the current global context.

Knight observed that the collaborative format enriched his students' learning experience. “The breakout groups seemed to be the high point,” he said. “Every group I stopped in on was having a lively conversation. The UCU students gave a presentation that dovetailed well with what we’ve been discussing in class, and I got the sense that my students really enjoyed it."

Beyond shared academic interests, the exchange highlighted the common Catholic Intellectual Tradition that underpins both universities, emphasizing dialogue, human dignity and the pursuit of truth through respectful engagement. Faculty from both institutions noted that these values shaped the discussion and reinforced the partnership's purpose.

As Seton Hall and Ukrainian Catholic University continue to expand their collaboration through classroom sessions, joint courses and future initiatives, the February exchange stands as a model for how international partnerships can foster meaningful academic dialogue, deepen cultural understanding and connect students across borders through shared inquiry.

Categories: Faith and Service, Nation and World