Leah’s interest in Central Asia began with her first Central Asian history course at Carleton College. She later earned a master’s degree in Central and Eastern European, Russian and Eurasian Studies through a joint degree program with the University of Glasgow and the University of Tartu in Estonia.

As SRAS’s Central Asia Program Manager, Leah supports students throughout their time in the region and contributes to program development. She also works with SRAS outreach, connecting with students, faculty, and study abroad professionals and helping introduce them to opportunities across the Eurasian Corridor.

Leah has traveled to all seven regions of Kyrgyzstan and hiked extensively throughout the country. She earned the title “Alpinist of Kyrgyzstan” after summiting Peak Alpiniada.