Passing of Semen Nemchonok, Renowned Educator and Founder of the International Language Certification Center at Karazin University: The University Extends Its Condolences

18 june 2024 year

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Semen Leontiyovych Nemchonok, an outstanding educator and the founder of the International Language Certification Center of the School of Foreign Languages at Karazin University, on June 16, 2024.

Semen Leontiyovych was born on August 8, 1948. He graduated from the School of Foreign Languages at Karazin University in 1971 and began his professional career as an English teacher at Kharkiv Specialized School No. 62, where he worked from 1971 to 1990. From 1990 to 2004, he served as the deputy director for educational work. From 2004 to 2014, he was a senior lecturer in the Department of English Language at V.N. Karazin Kharkiv National University.

From 2014 to 2017, Semen Leontiyovych was a teacher at the International Language Center in San Jose, California, USA. From 2017 to 2023, he worked as a senior lecturer in the Department of Methods and Practice of Teaching Foreign Languages and headed the International Language Certification Center.

Throughout his long and fruitful career, Semen Leontiyovych received numerous awards, including a certificate of recognition from the university's rector for his support in staff participation in training programs, organizing examination sessions, and contributing to the development of Pearson international language exams in Ukraine (2020). He also received gratitude from the International Language Assessment Centre for his productive collaboration, high professionalism, support of educational initiatives, and successful preparation of candidates for Pearson international language exams.

His scientific interests included testing various language skills of students in English, implementing external independent assessment of students in English into the educational process, preparing and implementing international language exams for students and researchers at Karazin University, and preparing students for the single foreign language exam for entry into master's programs.

His contribution to the development of foreign language teaching, dedication to his work, and high professionalism will forever be remembered by colleagues, students, and everyone who had the honor of working with him.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Semen Leontiyovych, sharing in their sorrow. The bright memory of him will forever remain in our hearts.