At HSA, we believe in the power of cultural exchange and the importance of preserving our unique traditions for future generations. Our board members are motivated to create an environment where people can learn and appreciate the beauty of Slavic culture through various events and educational programs.
Eugenia Matkhur, HSA President
Eugenia is a Supply Chain Professional with 19 years of experience in leading global projects across various industries with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and a Master’s in Finance.
Originally from Russia, she has spent half of her life living abroad, gaining priceless cross-cultural knowledge and perspectives. Now settled in The Woodlands, TX, Eugenia lives with her family and remains passionate about connecting with her community.
She focuses on fostering meaningful relationships, promoting cultural exchange, and supporting local initiatives. An avid traveler who has explored 37 countries, she enjoys experiencing diverse cultures, traditions, and cuisines. Eugenia is dedicated to raising awareness about Slavic culture whilst promoting understanding & appreciation of its rich heritage across Texas and North America.
Oksana Bogott, HSA Vice President, Co-founder
Oksana is a top-performing realtor with Coldwell Banker and has a master’s degree in economics. She has achieved significant professional milestones throughout her career, including being recognized as the #1 Top Individual Agent in the Houston area. She is also an active member of the American Women’s Business Association, where she engages with fellow businesswomen to foster growth and collaboration.
Oksana’s commitment to her community extends beyond her professional achievements. Her true passion lies in her community work, where she actively contributes to the vibrant Slavic community in Houston. She strives to make a positive impact on the lives of those around her, and as a mother who has experienced both international and local moves, she understands the challenges that come with relocating. She brings this empathy to her work in the Houston Slavic Association, assisting families transition smoothly into their new lives in Houston.
Oksana brings her expertise and passion for helping people to her role in the association. She is a people person who enjoys talking to, engaging, and learning from others. Through her work with the Houston Slavic Association, Oksana aims to enrich the lives of the Slavic community in Houston, providing support and fostering a sense of belonging. Her dedication to serving others is evident in all her endeavors, making her a valued leader and member of the community. In her free time, she embraces her love for nature by gardening and hiking.
Anya Lu, HSA Vice President, Co-founder
Anya Hommadova Lu was born in Soviet Union. She grew up in a Russian family in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, moving to the U.S. more than 25 years ago. She received her M.A. in International Relations and Ph.D. in Advanced Japanese Studies from University of Tsukuba in Japan after which she completed her second Ph.D. in Communication Studies from Arizona State University. Her research in Japan were funded by the Japanese Ministry of Science Technology and Education (MEXT). Her work has published in journals such as New Media and Society, Computers in Human Behavior, Health Communication, Journal of Nonverbal Behavior, Frontiers and more.
Dr. Lu is an assistant professor at Sam Houston State University. She is passionate about applied intercultural communication and bringing people together. She hopes for herself and other immigrants who choose to preserve their native language and traditions to be able to do so and wishes HSA can assist with that.
Her hobbies include collecting certificates and licenses. Currently she enjoys Aikido in the evenings and is working on her falconry license.
Anastasia Foley, Creative Director
Anastasia Foley is a U.S.Army Veteran with a passion in serving community. She has master’s degree in Folk Arts and two bachelor degrees in choreography and graphic design, music school diploma with piano specialization and group fitness instructor certification. Anastasia’s personal strengths align with the HSA’s goals. She strives to learn about new ways to provide healthy and happy living for community members.
Mrs. Foley has a strong background in Arts, Education and Management. Anastasia worked as a choreographer for 8 years and a director of a cultural center in Cheboksary, Russia, where she grew up. You may find her on a stage in one of the local community theaters volunteering as a production crew or acting. Besides dancing her hobbies include music, hiking, pickleball, motorcycles and learning new skills. She loves organizing and hosting thematic events or spontaneous game nights.
Irina Manuse, Engagement Director
Irina Manuse is originally from St. Petersburg, Russia, and has lived in the United States for over 20 years. After living in several states, she has called Texas home for the past eight years. Irina holds a Master’s degree in Russian Language and Literature from Herzen State Pedagogical University of Russia in St. Petersburg. She has experience teaching Russian to Russian-speaking children as well as teaching Russian as a foreign language.
Irina is passionate about language, education, and literature. She also enjoys the arts, including theater, opera, and museums, and loves traveling and spending time outdoors. She is excited to be part of the Houston Slavic Association and looks forward to contributing through her teaching experience, cultural background, and enthusiasm for supporting the Russian-speaking community.
Alexander Prangishvili, Director of Technical Affairs
Alexander is a versatile entrepreneur and operations professional with a background spanning hospitality management and logistics. Having served as Head Bartender at a private country club and later as Shipping & Receiving Manager at a Mack Truck dealership, he brings a rare combination of customer-facing excellence and behind-the-scenes operational precision to everything he does. Originally from Tbilisi, Georgia, Alexander now calls Texas home, where he and his wife have built something uniquely their own. Since 2017, the two have run a custom embroidery company together — a testament to their shared drive, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit.
With roots in one world and a life built in another, Alexander understands what it takes to adapt, lead, and create. He is passionate about craftsmanship, community, and the kind of hard work that turns a vision into a thriving business.
Join the leadership of the Houston Slavic Association!
We are looking for energetic and responsible individuals ready to become part of the Board of Directors. During the first year, you will serve as a temporary director, and afterward, you can transition into a permanent leadership role. This is a great opportunity to make a real contribution to the development of Slavic culture in Houston and to bring your ideas to life within a friendly and supportive team.
Board members participate in organizing festivals, cultural events, workshops, and children’s programs. You will be able to implement your creative and leadership ideas, see the results of your work, and become part of a community that is growing and thriving through collective efforts. Volunteering on the board offers professional growth, new connections, skill development, and a strong addition to your resume.