New Program Specialist Joins the HIVE
November 22, 2023
Courtesy photo
New HIVE Program Specialist Anya Slavina enjoying one of her favorite spots, Taos Ski Valley.
UNM-Taos HIVE announces the addition of Program Specialist Anya Slavina to the team.
“I am so excited to have Anya join the HIVE team. Anya brings a wealth of tech experience and knowledge that will support the development of a tech-inclusive ecosystem in our Northern New Mexico community. Their Ph.D. in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) will provide the HIVE the ability to launch various tech workshops and classes. Anya’s work with Microsoft and Cisco Meraki will be instrumental in recruiting a diverse group of mentors and future programming opportunities for our Northern New Mexico community members,” states HIVE Executive Director Rose Reza.
Slavina (they/them) is a neurodiverse, nonbinary being who is on a lifelong mission to befriend technology and any living beings they encounter. This mission led Slavina to embark on a Ph.D. in HCI, delving into the delightful dance between human and machine brains and how they impact each other. They’ve been the “weirdo wizard” behind classes on User Experience (UX) research, emerging technologies, diverse perspectives on technology, and psychology. Slavina's UX research endeavors have even taken them on thrilling adventures with tech giants like Microsoft and Cisco Meraki.
Slavina brings a playful twist to their teachings by infusing illustrations, turning complex concepts into bite-sized, approachable parts with the magic of doodles. They’re eagerly anticipating the opportunity to support, encourage, and empower the creative minds of Taoseños in crafting technologies straight from the “wonderfully chaotic atmosphere” of Northern New Mexico.
When not immersed in the tech realm, you can catch Slavina hanging out with the trees at Taos Ski Valley or embarking on bicycle escapades through the Rift Valley Trail.
The UNM-Taos Hub of Internet-based Vocation and Education (HIVE) is a coworking space and small business support center with onsite UNM-Taos classes and industry-recognized certification programs. The HIVE offers an individualized learning journey for those interested in working online or becoming an entrepreneur. Its “hive” environment combines small business coaching and mentorship, a coworking space, and community college classrooms to support any stage of learning in an accepting, accessible, and community-led atmosphere.
