Abstract. This article presents the academic career and personal qualities of Professor Krasimira Aleksova, a distinguished Bulgarian linguist whose scholarly contributions encompass sociolinguistics, theoretical grammar, psycholinguistics, and language culture. It outlines the main areas of her research, including language processes within the family, social and linguistic identity, grammaticalization, relationships between grammatical categories, modality, and evidentiality in Bulgarian. Particular attention is paid to her contributions to the study of the presumptive and conclusive forms, the development of perceptual sociolinguistics, and research on Bulgarian Sign Language. The article also highlights her extensive teaching, academic leadership, and international activities, as well as her role in educating and mentoring new generations of Bulgarian linguists. Alongside her scholarly achievements, it emphasizes her professional integrity, dedication, kindness, and unwavering support for young researchers. The text offers a comprehensive portrait of a scholar and educator whose lasting contribution to Bulgarian linguistics is reflected not only in her academic work but also in the inspiring personal example she sets.
Keywords: Krasimira Aleksova, Bulgarian linguistics, sociolinguistics, theoretical grammar, grammaticalization, evidentiality, scholarly contribution
