2026 Ella Award Winners
Alena Klimovich, Community Schools
Alena Klimovich is an accomplished educator and linguist with more than 40 years of teaching experience. For over two decades at the Russian School of Orange County, she has been dedicated to preserving and promoting the Russian language and culture through innovative instruction, curriculum development, and cultural programming. She has also taught Russian to preschool children and adult learners, helping generations of heritage language students prepare for the UCLA Russian Proficiency Exam and earn California's State Seal of Biliteracy. A published scholar with advanced degrees in linguistics from Belarusian State University, Alena has made lasting contributions to heritage language education through her commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. In recognition of her exceptional service and leadership, she is the 2026 ELLA Award Recipient in the Community Schools Category.
Junko Takuda Simpson
Junko Tokuda Simpson is a Japanese language educator and leader in world language education. As Lecturer and Academic Coordinator of the Japanese Studies Program at the University of California, San Diego, she has advanced student-centered language learning through innovative curriculum design, technology integration, and AI-enhanced teaching. With more than two decades of experience, she has contributed to the profession through leadership with the American Association of Teachers of Japanese, teacher training, curriculum development, and the National Japanese Exam. A frequent presenter, published scholar, and recipient of the Hamako Ito Chaplin Memorial Award for Excellence in Japanese Language Teaching, Junko has inspired students and educators nationwide. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to language education, she is the 2026 ELLA Award Recipient in the Secondary and Post-Secondary LCTL Educator Category.