Seven students are studying abroad this semester with the help of scholarships that are expanding their academic and career paths in Japan, South Korea, Spain, Australia and New Zealand. Each of them wrote to Carolina Lam, director of , to share how the experience is shaping their studies, goals and sense of possibility.

“It took the financial burden that I was worried about off my shoulders and in turn, allow[ed] me to focus on my studies,” said Linguistics major Mila Davis, studying in Japan. “I think studying abroad will be a beneficial experience to have for a lot of careers.”

Cassie Gault, majoring in tropical agroecology and studying in Australia, said the scholarship gives her room to focus on academics, extracurriculars and personal growth. When she returns, she hopes to mentor students who want to go abroad but feel overwhelmed by the process.

In Japan, Kensuke Panek is studying English and Japanese studies, building connections with students and faculty. He hopes to help strengthen ties between 东精影业 Hilo and Meiji University.

Hawaiian studies and political science major Ku Quanan is studying abroad for the first time. She sees this step as a turning point for her confidence and hopes more local students will see global education as possible for them, too.

Business major Rachael Rush is immersed in life and coursework in Madrid, gaining skills she hopes to use in international business.

In Aotearoa (New Zealand), Kahiau Snyder is exploring the connections between ʻ艒lelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language) and te reo M膩ori (M膩ori language).

“This scholarship helped me study in Aotearoa and learn m膩tauranga (M膩ori knowledge) that I will carry with me throughout my undergraduate and graduate studies in ʻ艒lelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language) and linguistics.”

Royce Ken Yasutake, studying in Japan, plans to use his growing Japanese language skills in the tourism industry and share practical advice with future participants.

A big benefit of the study abroad program is that students pay 东精影业 Hilo tuition when they are abroad and then come home with newfound knowledge and experience to finish their degree program.

For more go to .

—By Susan Enright

The University of 惭腻苍辞补 Campus Center Ballroom transformed into a colorful hub of games, workshops and music on November 7, as more than 800 people gathered for Nippon Culture Day. The annual event, hosted by the Department of (EALL), offered a full day of hands-on activities highlighting Japanese language, art and community traditions.

东精影业ees moved from table to table, trying everything from calligraphy and gift-wrapping to traditional Japanese card games such as hanafuda and karuta. Students practiced koto (Japanese string instrument) and sanshin (Okinawan string instrument), folded intricate origami and tested their skills at manga (comic book) character drawing and katakana (character) recognition game. Members of the Japanese Culture Club also supported a station, helping guests of all ages jump in.

“Our department has long been engaged in the study of Japan,” said Hiromi Uchida, a Japanese language instructor. “We see this event as a valuable opportunity for both learning and community building, and we hope to continue making Nippon Culture Day an exciting and enjoyable experience for all students and the community.”

Traditions up close

Nippon is the Japanese word for Japan. Culture-focused workshops ran throughout the morning and afternoon. Visitors sat for abacus lessons, learned the basics of ikebana (flower arrangement) in small-group sessions and experienced the quiet focus of a tea ceremony inside Jaku鈥檃n, the campus tea house.

Information tables connected students with academic and professional opportunities tied to Japan. Representatives from 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 (COS), , Japanese Exchange and Teaching Program and spoke with attendees about travel and study opportunities. Japan Airlines also provided details about career tracks.

As the afternoon continued, the event shifted to live performances featuring koto and sanshin demonstrations. The day ended with a bon dance, inviting everyone to celebrate together.

Nippon Culture Day is co-sponsored by the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 and COS. Located within the , the EALL department has hosted the free event for more than 20 years.

is growing its international exchange program through a new agreement with in Korea. Starting in fall 2025, students will have the chance to study abroad while staying connected to their home institution.

“Our focus is developing pilina (relationships), and that鈥檚 what makes us special鈥攐ur focus on nurturing relationships with our partner schools,” said Coordinator Kyoko Ikeda.

Kauaʻi CC had already built strong ties with three Japanese universities, with more than 50 students participating in exchanges over the past decade. The decision to expand into Korea was driven by both personal connections and a desire to broaden cultural learning opportunities. Kauaʻi CC English Instructor Ashley Brady, who previously lived and taught in Jeju, helped establish the new partnership.

Through the exchange, students pay tuition at Kauaʻi CC but can study at Jeju National University, making it an affordable way to gain global experience. However, travel costs such as airfare remain a hurdle.

“Many of our students could use financial support, and I really want our students to see the world and gain perspectives that you can only gain from leaving your home,” Ikeda said. “We want them to come back home with a renewed sense of the world. I want our students to have that understanding of interconnectedness.”

Community members can help support student travel by .

“We have so much to offer as an island community, and we have so much to learn from other island communities,” Ikeda said.

In an inspiring display of global collaboration, University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 Professor Brian Szuster recently brought his expertise to the heart of Bangladesh, empowering a new generation of rural development professionals from Asia and Pacific to help drive sustainable change. This initiative was funded through an $86,600 LuceSEA Transitions grant from the Henry Luce Foundation to 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 (CSEAS).

“I designed my training to be accessible to people. The ideas can still be complicated, but I simplify the way I describe the ideas,” Szuster said. “It was a challenge to simplify the presentation and keep the content sophisticated. But that鈥檚 doable when you have students like this group of young professionals who are so eager to learn.”

Development and preservation

Szuster鈥檚 two-day intensive training session at the Young Development Experts Connection program in Cumilla, Bangladesh focused on balancing development needs with environmental preservation. The program, hosted by the Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development (BARD) and organized by the Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific, brought together more than 30 ambitious young professionals.

Bangladesh is the world鈥檚 fifth most populous country and faces monumental challenges in sustainable development.

“Just the logistics of providing everyone with housing, food, water, employment, healthcare, and education is a gigantic challenge,” said Szuster.

Szuster鈥檚 innovative program helps align 东精影业 with its mission to foster international collaboration in addressing global challenges.

The welcomed 19 students from Japan鈥檚 for the Aloha Law Program, an immersive two-week exchange introducing Japanese students to the U.S. legal and political systems, earlier this fall. Funded by the Hakuoh and Sueoka Foundations, the program featured lectures, legal site visits and cross-cultural exchanges.

“The Aloha Law Program reflects 东精影业 Community Colleges鈥� commitment to fostering international collaboration and preparing students for a globally connected world,” said Della Teraoka, interim vice president of 东精影业 Community Colleges.

Fourth-year Hakuoh student Ryusei Nagamori said, “As Japan continues to engage in trade with the U.S., a solid understanding of American law will be essential for navigating future business transactions.”

A highlight was a visit to the , where Justice Sabrina McKenna, who earned a law degree from the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 in 1982, shared her perspective on U.S. and Japanese legal systems, sparking insightful discussions on comparative judicial frameworks.

Lecturers included other distinguished alumni from 东精影业鈥檚 and covered a range of topics from constitutional law to business law.

东精影业 alumni guest presenters included:

• Dara Nakagawa—U.S. Political and Court Systems
• Dawn Nakagawa—Common Law Principles and Contract Law
• Travis Kuwahara—U.S. Political and Court Systems
• Shimpei Oki—Business Law Overview
• Spencer Kimura—U.S. and Japan Legal System Overview
• Charles Crumpton—U.S. Political System History; Mediation and Arbitration
• Brandon Marc Higa—U.S. Constitutional Law Overview, Bill of Rights, Due Process

“It offers a rare opportunity for cross-cultural learning in a legal context,” said Deborah Nakagawa, former 东精影业 Community Colleges executive director for international education. “It鈥檚 inspiring to witness our future leaders build bridges of understanding between two distinct legal traditions.”

Professor Hiroyuki Yuzuriha of Hakuoh University said, “Our students gained invaluable insights from the lectures and interactions with legal professionals in Hawaiʻi.”

—By Brandon Marc Higa

In an exciting step toward international collaboration, the welcomed a delegation from the National Taiwan Ocean University (NTOU) in May as both universities prepare to implement a program for an accelerated pathway to a master鈥檚 degree for international students from undergraduate institutions abroad.

The initiative, with NTOU stems from agreements signed by the universities in November 2023 during a visit to Taiwan by 东精影业 President David Lassner.

“We鈥檙e not only enhancing educational opportunities but also building bridges between cultures,” said Lassner. “This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to advancing global understanding and academic excellence.”

The NTOU delegation was focused on research strengths shared by both universities during its visit to 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补. Those areas include ocean engineering, shipping management, food science, environmental biology and fisheries science.

NTOU representatives met with Dean Chip Fletcher and Dean Brennon Morioka to discuss ways to develop an expanded pathway for NTOU students to earn graduate degrees at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补.

More intercampus opportunities

Starting in the summer 2025, NTOU and 东精影业 plan to open applications for 东精影业 students to intern at the Taiwan university. The short-term program aims to enhance the 东精影业 students’ understanding of life in Taiwan and research fields at NTOU.

Opportunities for studying abroad have also been extended to students in the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Chinese Flagship Program. A three-year capstone program, providing students the opportunity to pursue yearlong Chinese language study in Taiwan, was made possible through a donation by NTOU alumnus Chia-Pei Wang, facilitated by the Alice & JP Wang Foundation and the 东精影业 Foundation.

The NTOU Chinese Language Center is also considering collaboration with 东精影业 in Chinese language teaching.

University of Hawaiʻi President David Lassner delivered commencement addresses at Asahi University and Meikai University in Japan in March to about 1,700 graduates. Lassner praised the students for their academic achievements and highlighted the impactful ties between 东精影业 and the two Japanese institutions over the years.

“I hope you feel great pride in all that you have accomplished, and are excited about new possibilities that are open to you as you enter into the next stage of your life,” said Lassner in his speeches. “I have every confidence looking at you today that the superb education you experienced here has prepared you with the knowledge, skills, and passion to grow as lifelong learners.”

In September 2023, Asahi and Meikai Universities contributed $20,000 toward 东精影业 relief efforts to help students and employees impacted by the Maui wildfires.

Long-term partnerships

Since 2009, 140 students from Meikai’s School of Hospitality and Tourism Management have enriched their education through 东精影业 summer programs fostering camaraderie and cross-cultural understanding. 东精影业 students in return have gone on short-term and semester-long exchange programs, which have provided them with valuable experiences in Japanese industry and culture.

The partnership with Asahi University has flourished since 2018, when students from the School of Health Science were hosted at the 东精影业 Mānoa College of Education Department of Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science. This collaboration has resulted in successful outcomes for students and faculty, with ongoing research focusing on enhancing the safety and fitness of senior citizens through new technologies.

“As our long-term relationship continues, the University of Hawaiʻi will be taking further steps toward building and sustaining our partnership,” said Lassner.

Strengthening ties

During his commencement address, Lassner shared a new initiative to explore the development of a “micro-campus” at Meikai University that will enable respective students to earn credits and degrees while studying at their home campuses.

“This has been successful at other universities, and I have every expectation that with our strong partnership, Meikai and 东精影业 can make this work for our students as well,” Lassner said.

To further the exchange support between the institutions, later this year, students from Asahi and Meikai will participate in various short-term programs at 东精影业, including disciplines such as health sciences, business administration, hospitality and tourism management, English and real estate sciences.

Scholarships provided by a generous donation from the Alice & JP Wang Foundation will help University of 贬补飞补颈驶颈 at 惭腻苍辞补 students with the costs of studying abroad in Taiwan as part of the in the (CALL).

The Alice & JP Wang Foundation Student Support Fund for Study in Taiwan will provide monetary assistance to help students with the cost of studying in Taiwan either over a summer or for their final year of the program.

Song Jiang, director of the Chinese Language Flagship Program, said the donation will help to cover students鈥� travel, tuition and living expenses.

“The ability of our flagship students to continue their studies in Taiwan is crucial as it affords them the opportunity to enhance their language capabilities through living in a Chinese-speaking society, and it provides them with the opportunity to gain a level of cultural competence otherwise not available to them,” Jiang said. “This very generous donation helps us to reach a greater number of students who want to further their studies in Taiwan to reach their academic and career goals.”

As part of the Chinese Language Flagship Program, students must spend eight weeks in a summer intensive Chinese language program, 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 in Taiwan program, and then study in Taiwan during a mandatory capstone year.

The California-based Alice & JP Wang Foundation was established by JP Wang, founder of the information technology firm Golden Star Technology Inc., and his wife, Alice Wang. Their foundation has also supported more than 50 scholarships in California.

“I am grateful to the (Alice & JP Wang) Foundation for their support of our students鈥� language immersion training in Taiwan, an essential component of the Chinese Flagship program,” said CALL Dean Peter Arnade. “Their gift will make a tangible difference in our students鈥� ability to complete the Flagship program and achieve advanced proficiency in Mandarin.”

Founded in 2014, the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Chinese Language Flagship program is one of 13 in the U.S.

The (NASPA) recognized Sarita Rai and the at the with the 2024 Best Practices in International Higher Education Award for their exemplary Student Affairs Professional Global Partnership on January 5.

The NASPA Best Practices in International Education Award acknowledges outstanding contributions to student affairs, emphasizing engagement and collaboration in international education programs and institutions.

As the director of the Study Abroad Center, Rai facilitates the development of student programs and participation, and supports faculty in teaching and research.

“I feel honored and humbled to be recognized for my work, this is a national award and also internationally recognized. All U.S. universities and many institutions of higher education overseas are members of NASPA,” Rai said. “Therefore, the award makes people aware of what we do at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and the excellence of the academy.”

Rai and the Study Abroad Center were nominated by Jayme Scally from West Virginia University. “I learned firsthand how supportive Sarita is in all aspects of the Study Abroad Center programs, from supporting 东精影业 students and faculty, to building relationships with partners abroad,” said Scally.

The Study Abroad Center offers students opportunities in Asia, Europe, and Oceania while earning credits toward a bachelor鈥檚 degree.

Rai and the Study Abroad Center will receive their award during the International Symposium on March 10, in Seattle.

• Related 东精影业 News story: Camel rides, labyrinth city explored in student鈥檚 ‘surreal’ study abroad experience, February 3, 2023

The and the (OIST) have agreed to a new partnership that will allow students and faculty to participate in research and educational opportunities between the two institutions.

东精影业 President David Lassner and OIST President and CEO Karin Markides signed a memorandum of understanding on November 19, in Honolulu, that formalized the agreement between 东精影业 and the leading Okinawan graduate university.

The collaboration has been lauded by top U.S. government officials.

“As we navigate the complexities of global environmental and energy challenges, collaborations like this epitomize the strength of the U.S.-Japan relationship. This partnership symbolizes our shared commitment to tackling global challenges and stands as a shining example of how cross-border cooperation can drive our understanding and solutions in critical fields,” said U.S. Ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel.

Emanuel has been very supportive of partnerships between U.S. and Japanese educational institutions that address pressing issues of concern to both nations.

东精影业 Mānoa Provost Michael Bruno visited the OIST campus in January and began facilitating the collaboration. As globally ranked research universities located in island communities, both 东精影业 and OIST are committed to conducting research that matters to those communities.

“We are very excited to partner with an institution that has grown into one of the top research universities in the world. I believe that the combination of our varied and shared strengths will provide lasting benefits to our students and faculty,” Bruno said. “We have identified key areas of collaboration that fit well in a natural way, including marine sciences, medicine, renewable energy and sustainability.”

Several of OIST鈥檚 faculty and staff have either spent time at 东精影业 Mānoa or have existing collaborations with researchers at 东精影业. OIST leaders have shown interest in several fields such as medicine, microbiome research and the ways in which 东精影业 Mānoa is fostering entrepreneurship among students and faculty.

“This collaboration marks a significant milestone in strengthening academic collaboration between our faculty and students, and public-private-university partnership between our complementary local clusters. By combining our strengths and resources with the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, we aim to advance research, education, innovation and outreach to new heights,” said Markides. “We look forward to the exciting opportunities and breakthroughs that will emerge from this synergistic partnership.”

The University of Hawaiʻi—West Oʻahu and Japan Aviation College Hokkaido (JAA) recently signed an agreement that allows Japanese students to seamlessly transfer and earn their bachelor’s degree in Hawaiʻi. This is the first in what is hoped to be many international partnerships for the Kapolei campus.

“We look forward to bringing JAA students to our campus to enhance their education with an Indigenous-grounded curriculum in our top-notch business program,” 东精影业 West Oʻahu Chancellor Maenette Benham said. “This valuable partnership will provide our own students with the chance to interact with an international community to expand their global knowledge and understanding.”

Students who complete an associate degree at JAA are guaranteed acceptance with sophomore standing to 东精影业 West Oʻahu in with a concentration in , or . The JAA students will have to meet international transfer student requirements, including passing an approved English proficiency exam.

The partnership promotes international education, cultural exchange and collaboration in areas of common interest and benefit to both institutions. Starting in 2025, qualifying JAA students will come to 东精影业 West Oʻahu for an in-person experience that will expose them to Indigenous culture, place-based learning and a robust academic curriculum within the Business Administration program.

“Japan and Hawaiʻi have a deep historical and cultural relationship,” JAA Chancellor Tadahiro Umezawa said. “In international resorts and commercial areas, there are opportunities for Japanese students to learn. This is extremely meaningful, and I hope that it will have a positive impact on the future of students.”

JAA鈥檚 International Aviation Business Department aims to train cabin attendants and ground staff who can succeed in the world with international knowledge and culture. Students study languages and Japanese culture to establish the foundation of understanding international cultural differences, learn etiquette and manners through practical manner training classes, and gain a high sense of hospitality.

–By Leila Wai Shimokawa

welcomed the governor of Japan鈥檚 Fukuoka Prefecture, Seitaro Hattori, to the campus in late April. The successes of an exchange partnership between Kapiʻolani CC鈥檚 program, and (NGU) to mutually broaden the academic and cultural experiences of students from both institutions piqued the interest of Fukuoka government officials and sparked enthusiasm for the visit.

“We believe that it will be wonderful if this exchange can lead to the development of professionals who can play an active role internationally and to the global dissemination of each other鈥檚 culture,” said Hattori. “Both Fukuoka andHawaiʻi share a common connection, and like here and your beautiful ocean, Fukuoka is also blessed with beautiful nature and seas that create the waters surrounding us. We, in Fukuoka, are blessed with abundant nature, agriculture, forestry and fish products from the sea and mountains. We hope that students from the University ofHawaiʻi will encounter many programs in Fukuoka.”

The collaboration also opens opportunities to have a profound long-term impact.

“We often learn about ourselves and our home by going abroad,” said Kapiʻolani CC Chancellor Misaki Takabayashi. “The transformation that we go through when we are exposed to completely new and foreign experiences has powerful life-long impacts. This is why the governments on both sides are committed to supporting the exchange between NGU and Kapiʻolani CC, and Fukuoka andHawaiʻi. My hope is that by expanding these opportunities, our students will nurture a strong identity and sense of kuleana (responsibiity) as global citizens and representatives ofHawaiʻi.”

Spring break in Fukuoka

Kapiʻolani CC culinary art students spent their spring break traveling and learning in Fukuoka. For many, it was their first time traveling internationally. Within a week, students experienced cultural activities, cooking demonstrations, culinary lectures and industry site visits.

“Having the opportunity to visit Fukuoka was an incredible experience,” said Kapiʻolani CC culinary student Sheena Llorico. “It was amazing getting to learn about the production of rice, and making our own mentaiko (salted cod roe). We even partook in classes taught by one of NGU‘s wonderful professors, where we learned about the variety of rice and the process to make one of Fukuoka’s known dishes, Motsunabe. What I’m most grateful for is being able to learn more about Japan’s culture and the friends I’ve made with the group I went up with, as well as the NGU students who were so kind to us.”

Kapiʻolani CC students will return to Fukuoka for another short-term study abroad experience in summer 2023 to gain new perspectives, learn new techniques in Fukuoka regional cuisine, and participate in culturally relevant opportunities that prepare them for their careers.

Dual degree at Kapiʻolani CC

Through the institutional partnership, students from NGU also have had the opportunity to enter a dual-degree program with Kapiʻolani CC since 2016.

Upon graduation, the students from Fukuoka receive a bachelor of arts or science degree from NGU and an associate of science degree from Kapiʻolani CC in culinary arts. The Fukuoka students graduating in spring 2023 experienced everything from voluntary work for the Sony OpenHawaiʻi banquet, paid internships with local restaurants, coffee sensory training, food innovation, product development and local farm and food manufacturer visits.

“The valuable experiences and the many people I met at Kapiʻolani CC broadened my horizons,” said Kapiʻolani CC culinary (and NGU) student Akari Takigawa. “In the future, I鈥檇 like to work in the food industry to connect Japan and overseas, especially to my hometown, Fukuoka.”

In an opportunity to discover architecture from a new perspective, five students and one faculty from the (NID) in Japan visited the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa as part of an international design exchange program from March 20–25.

The design exchange began with a careful analysis of sites on Oʻahu by 东精影业 Mānoa students, who selected Heʻeia State Park, the Lānaʻi Lookout and Diamond Head State Monument as potential sites with cultural significance and layered histories as locations for peace memorials.

• Related 东精影业 News story: Student travel to Japan enriches architecture exchange, March 7, 2023

After visiting the sites with NID students, and two intensive days of design workshops, three teams developed design installations that celebrated inner and outer peace, peace as something to maintain and peace as a journey.

“In Hawaiʻi, as designers, we are really accustomed to navigating cultural sensitivity in our designs, and it was really interesting to expand upon that in a new place,” said Sophia Collela, a second-year architecture student at 东精影业 Mānoa. “In Japan, when we went, we learned about another culture, and specifically about a sensitive event within that culture, and then bringing the students here as well. Now we were not only participating in learning about cultural sensitivity, but teaching it as well, in a place they were also unfamiliar with.”

“It was a good opportunity to understand how big the differences are between people from different countries,” said Shiho Ohkochi, a second-year NID student. “I want to treasure this experience and remember this feeling. It is a reason to exchange, to understand our differences and try to understand each other.”

NID students were able to experience a typical week at 东精影业 Mānoa鈥檚 campus. They interacted with other students and faculty and learned about the city and island from 东精影业 students’ perspective, offering a very different experience than they would have had as tourists.

“The design exchange offers students an opportunity to practice collaborating and cooperating in design teams, acknowledge strengths or weaknesses, and learn from their peers,” said Karla Sierralta, associate professor in the School of Architecture. “Students also gain new knowledge and a sense of responsibility as they present it to their guests, developing a new appreciation for local context and history. Overall, participants are exposed to diverse perspectives and the importance of mutual understanding.”

The Design Exchange Program is supported in part by the Hawaiʻi Architectural Foundation.

The are offering study abroad opportunities for current 东精影业 community college students.

Programs include a nine-day study tour in Japan to a three-year program at a Japanese senshu-gakko (professional training school). Many of these programs may be partially funded through scholarships.

Interested students must submit a by March 13, 2023.

“The value of studying abroad can be life-changing,” said Interim Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs Della Teraoka. “In addition to making new friends and lasting memories, studying abroad will help students to gain foreign language skills and cross-cultural competence. They also learn initiative and adaptability, which can give them career advantages.”

Current international programs and scholarship opportunities include:

• Hakuoh University International Study Tour, June 5–13, 2023. Spend nine days in Oyama City, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan.
• Honda Study Abroad Scholarship, Students can receive a scholarship to study anywhere in the world through study abroad programs from 东精影业, or other public or private organizations. This scholarship provides funding support to study overseas while incorporating an international educational experience into their academic program of study.
• Student Exchange Program, Choose to study for one semester or one year at a University in Japan, Taiwan or Canada. Program dates will vary depending on location.
• Monbukagakusho Scholarship, April 2024–March 2027. Study three years at a selected specialized training school in Japan.

For more information and to apply for these opportunities, visit: .

Director of Resource Development Brandon Marc Higa has been selected to participate as a fellow in the (UCI). The White House initiative will bring together 50 leaders from diverse colleges and universities in the United States and eight ASEAN member countries for a series of virtual and in-person training designed to foster sustainable international academic partnerships and the two-way exchange of students, scholars and researchers between U.S. and Southeast Asian higher education institutions.

“The UCI fellowship is a timely opportunity to align Kapiʻolani鈥檚 international partnerships in the ASEAN region with capacity building funding opportunities to prepare the next generation of global leaders,” Higa said. “World Learning is providing an extraordinary opportunity to directly contribute to through people-to-people diplomacy supporting key priorities for the University of Hawaiʻi in the Asia-Pacific region.”

The U.S.–ASEAN University Connections Initiative is administered through the U.S. Department of State鈥檚 Increase and Diversify Education Abroad for U.S. Students (IDEAS) Program, which builds U.S. colleges and universities鈥� capacity to engage in global partnerships and study abroad programming aligned with U.S. foreign policy goals.

“Brandon Marc鈥檚 participation in the UCI Fellowship raises the profile of the University of Hawaiʻi as a destination for study abroad partnerships with higher education institutions based in the ASEAN region,” said Kelli Nakamura, associate professor of history and principal investigator of the IDEAS Grant. “Kapiʻolani CC students and faculty have already benefited from Brandon Marc鈥檚 network at the State Department Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs as they consider applying for nationally competitive study abroad scholarships. He has been critical in providing institutional and student support to promote study-abroad initiatives and is an invaluable colleague who is passionate about supporting international education.”

The fellowship was limited to grantees from the State Department鈥檚 2022 IDEAS Grant program, which was awarded in the fall to Higa鈥檚 project, Militourism and Indigenous Identities in Hawaiʻi and Okinawa, that promotes study abroad and U.S. foreign policy interests through a week-long summer institute as part of a redesigned Ethnic Studies 101 course.

The COVID-19 pandemic is the latest in a series of multiple social crises that have impacted the global flow of people, things, institutions, and ideas in the opening decades of the 21st century. Many view pandemic lockdowns and social distancing as forms of “deglobalization” measured by the reduction of the objective movements of goods and people. A few discerning academic observers, however, instead think of it as “reglobalization” spearheaded by growing forms of digital interconnectivity.

These conflicting perspectives on globalization and global social change were shared by Professor Manfred Steger from the in University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 . His November 15 talk, “Globalization after COVID-19,” was the featured lecture of the 惭腻苍辞补 International Education Week.

Crises create “The Great Unsettling”

Steger said that other major crises in the early 21st century include anti-trade protests from 1999–2001, post-9/11 global terrorism, the 2008 Global Financial Crisis followed by the Eurozone Crisis, the rise of nationalist-populism in the 2010s (Brexit, Trumpism, etc), the current global supply chain disruptions and inflation caused by COVID-19, and, most recently, the Russia-Ukraine War. During these tumultuous times people experience instability, insecurity, anxiety and polarization. Therefore, Steger characterized our current era of rapid social change as the “Great Unsettling.”

The main qualities of globalization are interconnectivity, mobility and imagination. Steger pointed out that, despite the Great Unsettling, some forms of globalization—especially digitization—have continued at a rapid pace. In fact, according to Steger, even before the coronavirus pandemic, digital information and data flows have increased much more than the movement of people, institutions and tradable commodities.

COVID-19 became the “Great Accelerator” of this worldwide wave of digitization. For example, pandemic lockdowns reduced forms of connectivity in physical space, but enhanced mobility in cyberspace.

As we begin to transition into a world no longer dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Steger noted, we need a “globalization reset”—a rebalancing act aimed at reducing our online time and reconnecting physically.

“I am not suggesting we should smash our smartphones,” Steger clarified with a smile, “but spending an U.S. average of seven hours a day on electronic devices of all kinds is simply too much. We need to reacquaint ourselves with the human warmth of our tangible social worlds rather than capitulating to the endless prompts of social media—especially now that the pandemic is slowly subsiding.”

To view the entire lecture, .

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa has been awarded seven Title VI International Education grants totaling $7 million over a four-year grant cycle from the U.S. Department of Education, keeping the campus among an elite group of U.S. universities with a dominant presence in international studies, especially in the Asia and Pacific regions.

东精影业 Mānoa programs awarded funds

• National Resource Center for East Asia
• National Resource Center for the Pacific Islands
• National Resource Center for Southeast Asia
• Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowship for East Asia
• Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowship for the Pacific Islands
• Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowship for Southeast Asia
• National Foreign Language Resource Center

“东精影业 Mānoa is at the forefront of education in the Asia-Pacific region,” said 东精影业 Mānoa Provost Michael Bruno. “These competitive grants recognize our unparalleled strengths in instruction, research and training in these critical areas. As a minority-serving institution, we draw diverse students into higher education, build their skills through our fine faculty and academic partnerships, and send our alumni into professional careers that connect Hawaiʻi and the U.S. to the Pacific and Asia.”

The (NRC) and (FLAS) grants are housed in the (SPAS) in the (CALL) at Mānoa. SPAS is considered a leader in Pacific Islands studies and Asian studies nationally and internationally. 东精影业 Mānoa is the only university in the country to be awarded NRC-Pacific Islands and FLAS-Pacific Islands grants.

The NRC grants will support modern language instruction, teacher training, curriculum development, outreach and library collections. FLAS programs fund fellowships for 东精影业 Mānoa undergraduate and graduate students who are studying modern foreign languages and area studies.

The (NFLRC) grant was first awarded to 东精影业 Mānoa when the NFLRC program was established in 1990 and has been continuously earned since then, making 东精影业 Mānoa the oldest language resource center in the nation.

“Faculty and staff at 东精影业 Mānoa collaborated across campus and with other campuses to develop innovative projects, e.g. Asia-Pacific Studies Career Readiness Program, the Kapiʻolani Community College Certificate of Community Interpreting, and NFLRC Japanese and Filipino Culture Apps,” said CALL Dean Peter Arnade. “Winning these prestigious grants not only demonstrates our national leadership in these fields but also provides critical support to the university to carry out its mission to serve the people of Hawaiʻi, and its neighbors in the Pacific and Asia.”

A full array of events at the celebrated International Education Week (IEW). Through November 19, the 东精影业 Hilo has arranged activities online and on campus that showcase food, history, music and scenery from various cultures. The activities are designed to share international education with the entire Vulcan community.

“IEW aims to share the essence of cultural exploration and excitement with students in the U.S. who may not have had much international exposure,” said Mika Odaira, a junior at 东精影业 Hilo Study Abroad Program advisory.

International food spotlight

东精影业 贬颈濒辞鈥檚 main dining room has been featuring unique dishes from around the world for the week-long event. Sodexo food services is offering specials from countries such as Cuba, Thailand, France and Spain.

“We know that we may not be able to 100% match the taste [international students] are used to, but it is our hope that we can at least make them feel a little more settled here in Hilo,” said Reid Kusano, catering and retail manager at 东精影业 Hilo.

Photo submissions

Students also have an opportunity to . Submissions depict photos from student experiences studying abroad, vacationing or other travel experiences. Organizers encouraged participants to share how they saw and experienced cultures from around the world.

International trivia night

Trivia Night activities also share the rich history of the many cultures explored by study abroad. The event aimed to show appreciation for other cultures as well as educate students through history, interesting facts and unique characteristics.

Music around the globe

A collection of music from cultures such as Japan, Korea and Spain are available for this week鈥檚 online events. .

This year鈥檚 IEW events were planned by Odaira and her fellow study abroad advisors Jessie Ladouceur and Teagan Maher, alongside Global Education Director Carolina Lam and Global Exchange Director Todd Shumway.

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—By Elena Espinoza

International students in the University of Hawaiʻi 10-campus system contributed more than $82.2 million in direct spending to the state鈥檚 economy in 2019, that led to a total economic output of more than $173 million for Hawaiʻi. Those findings were in (PDF) released by the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT).

东精影业 international students are responsible for about 45% of the $381.2 million dollars in direct and indirect spending by international students in Hawaiʻi in 2019.

“International students have positively contributed to Hawaiʻi and our economy for many years,” said DBEDT Director Mike McCartney. “They have helped to expand our marketing and promotion efforts to reinforce the message that Hawaiʻi is a place where the world comes to learn.”

The economic impact of international students goes well beyond paying for tuition and fees, according to the DBEDT report:

• $381.2 million in economic output generated, including direct, indirect and induced effects;
• $29.2 million in state taxes generated;
• $168.4 million in household income generated; and
• 3,756 jobs supported by international student spending.

“While the COVID pandemic has added a pause to travel to Hawaiʻi, we are confident that international students will continue to seek educational opportunities in the state in the near future,” said Dennis Ling, administrator of the Hawaiʻi Business Development and Support Division.

Hawaiʻi鈥檚 educational institutions hosted a diverse group of students from all over the globe. Japan remained the top country of origin for Hawaiʻi鈥檚 international students, comprising 31.6% of the total. Japan was followed by South Korea with 14.4%, Switzerland with 9.0%, China with 4.7% (including Hong Kong and Macao), and Germany with 2.9%.

For more, .

This letter was submitted by University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 Provost Michael Bruno to Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Chad F. Wolf and Acting Regulatory Unit Chief, Office of Policy and Planning Sharon Hageman, U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding the new proposed rule .

Dear Acting Secretary Wolf and Acting Regulatory Unit Chief Hageman,

On behalf of the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补, I write to urge you withdraw this rule. The proposed elimination of duration of status and its replacement by the proposed fixed length of stay periods (two or four years) would deal a devastating blow to our university and to our nation鈥檚 global competitiveness and reputation. Given the gravity of the proposed changes, I also request that the period open for commentary be extended from 30 days to 60 days.

Despite the arguments posted by the Department of Homeland Security, it is clear to us that this ruling would have a chilling effect on international students, who have many options for study abroad. The excellence of higher education in the U.S. has been a strong draw in recent decades; but this ruling, if enacted, would surely work to weaken that draw. A decline in international students would snowball into lower rankings and still fewer of the top international students choosing to study in the USA. Moreover, aside from the many contributions these students make to our academic programs and our reputation for excellence, they also bring very substantial financial resources鈥攄irectly to our colleges and universities in the tuition and fees they pay, and more broadly to the overall economy. Recent research on the 2018–19 academic year found the contribution to the U.S. economy by international students studying at our colleges and universities to be $41 billion, supporting 458,290 jobs.

The proposed periods (2 years or 4 years) will be inadequate for many international students at all levels, but especially so at the graduate level. Average time to doctoral degrees for all students has recently been determined to be 7.3 years; and for international students only slightly more (7.5 years). Why would a capable international student choose to risk coming to the U.S. for graduate study knowing that an extension would be needed and could not be guaranteed until more than 3 years into their study—an enormous risk of time and financial resources鈥攚hen they have so many other countries they could choose without having the uncertainty about being granted an extension?

Requiring application to USCIS for Extension of Stay (EOS) would add substantially to the workload of an already overburdened USCIS, as well as our international student and scholar services offices. And it would place an additional financial and workload burden on international students and scholars themselves.

This proposed rule change is unlikely to make the U.S. any safer, since DHS already tracks international students and exchange visitors, who are also monitored closely by the colleges and universities that host them. Instead, it sends a negative, discouraging message to them, at the same time as many other countries around the world are taking steps to ensure that international students and exchange visitors feel welcome and are provided with the support systems they deserve.

I urge you to withdraw the proposed rule. It is fundamentally flawed and its implementation would be counter to the national interest, doing far more damage to our institutions than making them and our nation more secure.

Sincerely,
Michael Bruno
东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Provost

The has been awarded two Title VI International Education grants totaling almost $1 million from the U.S. Department of Education. These awards maintain 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 standing in an elite group of U.S. universities with a dominant presence in international studies, especially in the Asia and Pacific region.

The for Southeast Asia grant combined with the NRC for East Asia grant totals $965,764 for the next two years (2020–2022).

The NRC grants will support modern language instruction, teacher training, curriculum development, outreach and library collections. The NRC grants are housed in the (SPAS), under the new (CALL). SPAS is considered a leader in Pacific and Asian Studies nationally and internationally.

“Advancing research and educating our students in the context of the rich cultures that surround us is important as we prepare them for the future,” 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Provost Michael Bruno said. “These grants will ensure that 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 and the School of Pacific and Asian Studies continue to be a driving force in the generation and dissemination of knowledge of cultures across the Asia and Pacific region.”

“Winning these prestigious grants demonstrates 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补鈥檚 continued excellence in the field of Asian Studies,” CALL Dean Peter Arnade said. “Our university is a recognized leader in international education and plays a key role in connecting Hawaiʻi and the nation with the world.”

For most of us, living in a foreign country whose language you are studying in college would be a daunting, if not inconceivable, proposition. Anthony (Tony) Jenkins, a University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 major in the College of Languages, Linguistics & Literature, is not “most of us.”

A natural linguist, Jenkins, who came to Hawaiʻi from Jackson, Mississippi, chose to study Chinese in order to challenge himself. He has levels of high levels of fluency in Korean, Mandarin, Cantonese and Spanish and is comfortable speaking other languages. The flagship programs of 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 attracted Jenkins to campus. 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Chinese Language Flagship Center Director Madeline Spring describes him as an “unusually talented individual.”

Jenkins received a coveted , which is funding his study at Nanjing University for an academic semester in fall 2019, as well as the upcoming internship semester. By doing so, he not only fulfills the capstone requirement of the Flagship Center, but also one of his dreams.

Courses such as the history of Taiwan and Inner Mongolia, composition and media studies expanded his knowledge. But it is the relationships that he has forged that expand his love for the Chinese language, culture and people. Jenkins participated in a community service event recently to help ring in the New Year. Because the event took place in a rural area, having a foreigner involved, especially an American, resulted in Jenkins being in both and television news.

• Related 东精影业 News story: Chinese Flagship student receives scholarship to study in China, April 4, 2019

Jenkins said, “There are other English speakers in my cohort who at times converse in English outside of class, but I have made it my personal rule that I will not speak in English for the duration of my time here in China. And with the exception of speaking with the director of our program once, I鈥檓 pleased to say that I have successfully maintained this rule.”

This spring semester, Jenkins will intern at Yunnan Provincial Museum in Kunming as an interpretive guide.

Students can have the world at their fingertips as they take part in the global experience, International Education Week, November 19–21. The cultural experience, hosted at , features events that help promote programs that prepare students for an international environment as well as give students the opportunity to explore and understand many world cultures in fun, educational activities.

Tuesday, November 19

Exploring International Diplomacy: What Do Diplomats Do?
Lama Library Alcove, 10:45 a.m.–12 p.m.

Juan “Jay” Avecilla, a 16-year veteran of the U.S. Foreign Service, has joined the East-West Center as diplomat in residence. Avecilla has served as a management officer internationally and nationally.

International Music Concert
ʻOhiʻa Cafeteria, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.

Kapiʻolani CC synthesizer ensemble, directed by Professor Anne Craig Lum, will perform both instrumental and vocal music from Korea, China, Japan, Europe and the U.S.

Ethnomusicology: A Glimpse into World Music
ʻOhiʻa Foyer, 1–2 p.m.

Beryl Yang and the MUS107 class invite students to try various world musical instruments and explore different approaches that emphasize cultural, social and other dimensions of musical behavior.

Wednesday, November 20

Japanese Manga Workshop with Kazuo Maekawa
ʻOhiʻa Cafeteria, 2–3 p.m.

Meet and learn how to draw manga from the artist of the Phoenix Wright Ace Attorney (Gyakuten Saiban) manga series, Kazuo Maekawa.

Thursday, November 21

Kapiʻolani CC Student Clubs
ʻOhiʻa Cafeteria, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Learn about the Kapiʻolani CC International Club/Ohana and Kapiʻolani CC French Students, student clubs that foster and promote intercultural understanding through engaging events.

International Experiences in STEM
STEM Center – Kokiʻo 202, 12:30–1:30 p.m.

Students in STEM and the Academic Subject Certificate in Sustainability present their recent international experiences in Japan.

International students in the University of Hawaiʻi system contributed more than $91.5 million to the state鈥檚 economy in 2018 according to the (PDF) released by the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT). The estimated total amount of direct spending by international students at all Hawaiʻi institutions was $216.9 million, which includes total living expenses and institutional tuition and fees.

“The benefits international students contribute to our state go far beyond their direct and indirect spending. Their presence in our schools promotes mutual understanding and global collaboration and is essential to building bridges that connect future world leaders,” said Gov. David Ige. “We are able to share Hawaiʻi鈥檚 culture with the students and they, in turn, teach us about their culture.”

Including the ripple effects, DBEDT estimates the total economic impacts of international students are:

• $446.7 million in economic output generated, including direct, indirect and induced effects
• $34.3 million in state taxes generated
• $197.3 million in household income generated
• 4,576 jobs supported by international student spending

According to Mike McCartney, director of DBEDT, “International study exchange programs not only contribute to Hawaiʻi鈥檚 economic growth but its continued ability to attract foreign students and investments. Hawaiʻi鈥檚 appeal as a place that embraces many different cultures remains one of our greatest assets.”

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Read the full (PDF).

A University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 student earned a scholarship to study in China that attracted 2,300 applicants from 517 colleges and universities around the country.

Anthony Jenkins, a Chinese Flagship major in the at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补, received a scholarship from the . He is one of 135 scholarship awardees. Jenkins will use his award to travel to China for an academic year beginning fall 2019, fulfilling one of the Chinese Flagship major requirements.

A natural linguist, Jenkins, who came to Hawaiʻi from Jackson, Mississippi, chose to study Chinese in order to challenge himself. He has levels of fluency in Korean, Mandarin, Cantonese and Spanish and is comfortable speaking other languages. The flagship programs of 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 attracted Jenkins to campus.

“One of my life passions is language study, and Hawaiʻi is an outstanding location to study languages and culture,” he commented. “After I graduate, I hope to work as a translator.”

Fund for Education Abroad provides scholarships and ongoing support to students who are underrepresented among the United States study abroad population, including minority, LGBTQ+, first-generation and community college students. The 2019–2020 scholars come from a variety of racial, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds and represent 99 higher education institutions across the country. This year, 91 percent of the students are of minority backgrounds, and 90 percent are first-generation college students.

are providing a major boost to the state economy. In 2017, 东精影业鈥檚 foreign students generated $103.3 million in direct spending in Hawaiʻi that led to $241.5 million in economic output, according to a report by the state (DBEDT) released November 27.

The direct spending estimate includes the total living expenses and institutional tuition and fees. 东精影业 accounts for nearly half of the $241.5 million generated by international students in direct spending as well as the resulting $497 million in economic output, which includes direct, indirect, and induced effects, according the DBEDT report.

“Our international students and programs not only have a tremendous impact on the local economy, they also expose our in and out of state students to different ideas, customs and perspectives,” said Vice President for Academic Planning and Policy . “They are an extremely valuable part of the educational experience at 东精影业 and are one of the reasons why we are truly a global university.”

In the fall 2017 semester, there were 2,465 international students enrolled in the 东精影业 System, close to 5 percent of the total student body. The total responding 34 educational institutions in the state reported a total of 12,916 international students in 2017, including both long-term students and short-term students, such as those that came to attend English language training programs.

“International students in Hawaiʻi are an important part of our economy,” stated DBEDT Director Luis P. Salaveria. “Students from around the world bring international perspectives into our classrooms, and often lead to longer-term business relationships and economic benefits.”

International students contribution to taxes, income and jobs

The Research and Economic Analysis Division of DBEDT prepared the report that also estimated that international students generated $38.2 million in state taxes and $219.8 million in household income while supporting 5,264 jobs in 2017. The (BDSD) is leading the state鈥檚 efforts for international student exchange.

“While nationwide, the overall number of international students studying in the U.S. declined, Hawaiʻi鈥檚 numbers are holding steady thanks to our continued marketing,” said Dennis Ling, BDSD administrator. “The department will continue to work with our education partners to attract more foreign students to our classrooms.”

Japan remains the top country of origin for Hawaiʻi鈥檚 international students, followed by the Republic of Korea and China.

The , and the impact of 东精影业 System can be found in Appendix III, page 19.

is celebrating its 18th year of , November 13–15, an effort to promote programs that prepare students for a global environment and provide an international experience at the college.

Over the years, International Education Week has enriched student learning, providing students with opportunities to increase their understanding of world cultures and traditions, while adding significant value to their educational experiences in college.

for more information on each presentation.

Tuesday, November 13

The state of U.S.–U.N. relations: Conflict or co-operation?
Lama Library Alcove, 10:45 a.m.–12 p.m.

Jack Anderson, diplomat in residence at the East-West Center, is an 18-year veteran of the U.S. Foreign Service. He most recently served as senior advisor to the Department of State鈥檚 Bureau of International Organization Affairs in Washington, D.C.

International music concert
ʻOhiʻa Cafeteria, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.

Kapiʻolani CC synthesizer ensemble, directed by Professor Anne Craig Lum, will perform both instrumental and vocal music from Korea, China, Japan, Canada, the Philippines and
the U.S.

International film screening: Mount Tsurugidake: Ten No Ki
ʻOhiʻa 118, 6–8:30 p.m.

In 1907, a group of men climbed an unconquered peak in the last unmapped region of Japan.

Wednesday, November 14

Tai Chi for arthritis for fall prevention
ʻOhiʻa Cafeteria, 9–9:45 a.m.

Tai Chi for arthritis is an evidence-based program supported by the Centers for Disease Control targeting seniors to improve balance.

Modern and traditional Japanese songs
ʻOhiʻa Cafeteria, 12:30–1:15 p.m.

Japanese students and their class tutors will sing, “Nada So So,” accompanied by Iroha Mochida on sanshin, along with modern Japanese songs and a sanshin performance.

Japanese games and illustration contest
ʻOhiʻa Cafeteria, 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Learn about the people and culture of Japan through an illustration contest, along with a display of manga and anime from Japan.

International film screening: A Capella
ʻOhiʻa 118, 6–8:30 p.m.

Kyoko Noma meets university student Wataru Domoto in the tea cafe Mubansou (A Cappella). Kyoko falls in love with him, but they get involved in an incident that leads to a shocking ending.

Thursday, November 15

Memorias Vivas
ʻOhiʻa Cafeteria, 9–11:30 a.m.

Learn about the century-old tradition of honoring loved ones who have passed in the form of a Mexican ofrenda and the powerful symbols involved with D铆a de los Muertos/Day of the Dead.

Bryan Tolentino and Herb Ohta, Jr.
ʻOhiʻa Cafeteria, 11–11:45 a.m.

Bryan Tolentino’s repertoire is a mixture of Hawaiian, contemporary and original songs, blending creativity and diversity with the ʻukulele. Along with international recording artist Herb Ohta, Jr., who is considered to be one of today鈥檚 most prolific ʻukulele masters.

Kapiʻolani CC clubs
ʻOhiʻa Cafeteria, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

• Kapiʻolani CC international club/ohana: The club fosters intercultural understanding, friendship and student leadership across diverse cultures.
• Kapiʻolani CC Bayanihan (Filipino) club: The club aims to promote friendship among members, develop civic consciousness and participate in promoting Filipino culture.
• Kapiʻolani CC French club: French language students present samples of bread, cheese and other French products.

Ethnomusicology: A glimpse into world music
ʻOhiʻa Cafeteria, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Try out musical instruments from around the world. Presented by Beryl Yang and students of Music 107.

International experiences in STEM
STEM Center, Kokio 202, 1:30–3:30 p.m.

Students in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program present their recent international experiences in Japan, Liberia, Switzerland and Costa Rica.

International film screening: First Love
Kopiko 127, 6–8:30 p.m.

In Tokyo, on December 10, 1968, 300 million yen was stolen in broad daylight without violence or suspects. The event is still the most talked about unsolved crime in Japan. Director Yukinari Hanawa makes the heist into a tale of first love and rebellion in the late 1960s of Japan.

The University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 and in Gyeonggi-do, South Korea, are partnering to provide educational opportunities for Gachon students at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补.

Gachon students will earn English language credits for participating in the Outreach College’s (NICE) 10-week program in the spring and fall semesters. NICE is known for its emphasis on building essential oral communication skills in English necessary for global communication. Additional groups of Gachon students will participate in shorter, customized programs also offered through Outreach College.

Signing the two-year memorandum on August 24 were 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 Interim Chancellor and Outreach College Dean , and Gachon President Gil Ya Lee and Dean of the Office of International Affairs Kyoungjin Choi.

This agreement reflects a continuation of Outreach College’s relationship with Gachon University that first began in 2012. As part of this new agreement, the college is offering two scholarships to qualified Gachon students to attend 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 as visiting international students for one semester.

“We really value our partnership with Gachon University and look forward to more Gachon students on our campus,” said , 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 director of . “We are very pleased that Gachon students will not only benefit from our English language programs, but also that some will have the opportunity to experience 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 as regular students matriculated in credit courses.”

The has been awarded five Title VI International Education grants from the U.S. Department of Education, keeping the campus among an elite group of American universities with a dominant presence in international studies, especially in the Asia and Pacific region.

The five awards, totaling a combined $5 million over a four-year cycle, are:

• National Resource Center for the Pacific Islands
• Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowship for East Asia
• Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowship for the Pacific Islands
• Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowship for Southeast Asia
• National Foreign Language Resource Center

“These grants recognize our superb programs in languages and area studies with our focus on Asia and the Pacific,” said Interim Chancellor . “东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 is a nationally and internationally acclaimed leader in these areas, and we play a critical role in connecting Hawaiʻi and the nation with the world.”

Title VI of the National Defense Education Act of 1958 was enacted to build foreign language and area studies programs at American universities.

More on the Title VI grants

The National Resource Center supports modern foreign language training, teacher training, curriculum development, outreach and library collections.

Foreign Language and Area Studies programs fund fellowships for 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 undergraduate and graduate students who are studying modern foreign languages and area studies.

The National Resource Center and Foreign Language and Area Studies grants are housed in the , which was established in 1987. School of Pacific and Asian Studies is considered a leader in Pacific and Asian studies nationally and internationally.

The National Foreign Language Resource Center grant was first awarded to 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补’s when the program was established in 1990 and has been continuously earned since then, making 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 the oldest language resource center in the nation.

东精影业‘s National Foreign Language Resource Center is part of a national network to improve the learning and teaching of foreign languages. It accomplishes this through research; the development of teaching materials, including the use of advanced educational technology; and the training of professional language educators.

“东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 has once again garnered national recognition for its excellence in the fields of Asian and Pacific Islands studies,” said School of Pacific and Asian Studies Dean . “Winning these prestigious awards is a great honor, providing essential funding to bolster the study of these critically important world areas that figure so centrally in the educational mission of the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补.”

Students from the at the University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 recently returned from a successful three-week tour of Asia, which included stops in Tokyo, Kyoto, Beijing, Hanoi and Seoul. The primary goal of this program is to prepare students for careers and business opportunities in the dynamic Asia-Pacific region.

The faculty–led group of 20 undergraduate and graduate students visited global multinational companies such as Nissan, Japan Airlines, Nestle, NBA China and Kyland Technologies, as well as high-growth new ventures in China鈥檚 ride-share sector and Vietnam鈥檚 food service industry.

“As a business professional in Hawaiʻi, I returned from the trip with a clear understanding on how I need to modify my business to better meet the needs of our international tourists, while also catering to our local customers as well,” said MBA student Emily Bertino. “I now possess a deeper appreciation of culture and business practices in Japan, China, Vietnam and South Korea, and feel as though this trip was an essential and invaluable part of my MBA.”

According to Asian Field Study Program Director , “To develop Hawaiʻi into an Asia-Pacific hub for business and tourism, it is critical for our students to gain in-country experience with the language, cultural and business skills necessary to succeed. This program gets students out of the classroom to interact with and learn from leading corporate executives throughout the region.”

About the Asian Field Study Program

The 东精影业 Shidler College of Business’ Asian Field Study is one of the top global business field study programs focusing on Asia-Pacific. Students tour Asia and visit companies, government agencies and cultural sites. The program works to improve relations between countries in the region through increased education and communication.

Scholarships totaling more than $100,000 were provided by the Freeman Foundation, Ralph S. Inouye Co., Ltd., David T. Pietsch and the 东精影业 Shidler College of Business. Every student that participated in the Asian Field Studies Program receive some level of scholarship and/or fellowship.

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A delegation from the University of Hawaiʻi attended ‘s 120th anniversary celebration held April 30 to May 5. Peking University is one of the oldest and most respected institutions of higher education in China and has a strong relationship with 东精影业 dating back more than 30 years.

东精影业 President and other university representatives met with Peking University Party Secretary, Hao Ping (东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 alumnus 1995, MA in History) to share ideas for future collaborations.

In pre-opening events for Peking University鈥檚 gala affair, 东精影业 students,led by 东精影业 Professors Aaron Sal膩 and Makalani Sal膩, gave a hula performance. The group was .

Lassner and the delegation also met with (BFSU) President Peng Long and leadership to reaffirm the relationship and exchange views on cooperation in multiple areas, including social sciences, regional studies, second language research, history, and Pacific language and cultural studies. BFSU is the premier university in China in international studies.

The meeting culminated with the renewal of the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补-BFSU partnership and signing of a new transfer and articulation agreement into the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 BA in Economics, the sixth specific cooperation agreement over the past 12 years between the schools. One of the first agreements created the highly successful at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 in November 2006.

“The cooperation between our two universities remains strong at the institutional level and is supported by the substantive cooperation between multiple departments and specialties,” said Lassner. “We plan to continue to strengthen our exchanges and continuously innovate with new and evolving models of cooperation.”

东精影业 and BFSU also presented together in a forum featuring indigenous dance with students from both institutions and discussions around the theme of “Intercultural Dialogue—Cultural Identity and Cultural Mix.” Lassner and BFSU Vice President Yan Guohua delivered remarks, and scholars from both universities reflected on the performances and discussed the intersection, influence, understanding and integration of cultures.

Lassner also attended the World University Presidents Forum while in Peking and gave an invited presentation in the session on Global Education.

First alumni event in Peking in 20 years brings 东精影业 friends together

The 东精影业 delegation also held an alumni event in China, the first in 20 years, which was sponsored by Hawaiian Airlines. About 70 people attended, including graduates who came from all over Asia, including Hong Kong, Shanghai, Nanjing and Tibet. The group enjoyed Hawaiian music and hula, and planned how to continue to keep their relations strong with each other and 东精影业.

“What an incredible experience it was—meeting so many of our alumni in Beijing,” said Lassner. “My special thanks to Hawaiian Airlines for sponsoring our reception and also for flying our musicians and dancers to Beijing. They were an amazing partner in this event.”

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The signed a memorandum of understanding to share academic and research opportunities in maritime safety and security; navigational technologies; and marine, maritime and environmental management with in Bangladesh.

In January, 东精影业 Hilo Interim Chancellor hosted a delegation from maritime university in the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, which included Vice Chancellor and Rear Admiral A S M Abdul Baten, Deputy Secretary of Education from the People’s Republic of Bangladesh Shahnaz Samad and other officials.

During their visit, the delegation met with faculty from the 东精影业 Hilo and to discuss projects under the agreement.

Possible projects include:

• Academic exchange programs, university publications, treaties and research materials
• Short-term faculty exchanges for cooperation in research, teaching and other scholarly activities
• Pursuit of educational and research funding
• Joint research projects and publications
• Professional development courses in maritime topics provided by 东精影业 Hilo and delivered in Bangladesh or elsewhere as mutually agreed

“The signing of the MOU with Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Maritime University broadens 东精影业 Hilo’s relationship with institutions of higher education in Asia, and we are especially excited to be exploring with them collaborative opportunities in marine science, aquaculture and computer science,” said Sakai.

For more on 东精影业 Hilo’s welcoming ceremony, go to .

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—By Susan Enright

The has partnered with the and will now accept EIKEN results as evidence of English proficiency. This partnership will allow all campuses to now accept the EIKEN test for admission purposes, making it the first statewide system of higher education in the nation to use the EIKEN test systemwide.

“Our use of the EIKEN test and present and future cooperative partnerships with the EIKEN Foundation of Japan will benefit 东精影业 West Oʻahu’s efforts at internationalizing the campus and connecting our Hawaiʻi students to the world,” 东精影业 West Oʻahu Chancellor said.

“This important step will strengthen what are already extraordinary ties between the 东精影业 System and the country and people of Japan,” 东精影业 President said.

The University of Hawaiʻi has long been a major destination for Japanese students: 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 has more graduate students from Japan than any other university in the U.S., and Kapiʻolani Community College has more undergraduate students from Japan than any institution in the nation.

More about the EIKEN tests

EIKEN tests are administered at more than 17,000 sites across Japan and are also administered in London, New York, Los Angeles and Honolulu. These tests are recognized by more than 400 institutions of higher education in the United States, Australia and Canada.

—By Leila Wai Shimokawa

The University of Hawaiʻi at 惭腻苍辞补 provided an immersive experience for students through its inaugural program. Participants of the four-week summer course, which included a two-week study abroad component in Beijing, China, delved into topics of health and aging in China and Hawaiʻi, giving them a global perspective on the world around them.

“One interesting aspect of China, as well as Hawaiʻi and many other places, is this changing demographic of today’s society,” said , dean of the College of Social Sciences. “惭腻苍辞补 Academy Beijing was a great opportunity to provide students with a tailored experience that allowed them to compare aging and demographics in Hawaiʻi to what’s happening in Beijing. It really got them thinking about their own parents and their own future.”

Fourteen students attended 惭腻苍辞补 Academy Beijing’s SOCS 180 course, an Introduction to International and Global Studies, and enjoyed a unique, hands-on experiential education. Throughout the course, students were immersed in diverse cultures and experiences, giving them a fresh perspective on the world around them.

“惭腻苍辞补 Academy Beijing offered an experience that was different,” said 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 junior Anthony Silva. “It made me think differently, it made me see life differently.”

From calligraphy and tai chi to social systems for health and community

Students spent the first two weeks of the course on the 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补 campus, learning about health and aging and the landscape of Hawaiʻi. Students also learned conversational Mandarin from the at 东精影业 惭腻苍辞补, as well as historical and cultural facts about the host country in preparation for their trip.

The second half of the course was spent at the , a prestigious research university in Beijing, China, where students further explored health and aging, as well as the social systems for health and community and globalization.

Morning lectures also included lessons in tai chi and calligraphy, allowing the students to gain a better appreciation for the Chinese culture. Afternoons were spent with excursions to some of China’s most culturally and historically significant landmarks, such as the Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square and the Great Wall of China, which deepened the participants understanding of their host country.

The study abroad portion of the course was made possible through a partnership with Han Ban, a cultural exchange agency funded by the Beijing Ministry of Education, and Hawaiian Airlines. The partnerships covered all room, board, airfare and excursion fees for 惭腻苍辞补 Academy Beijing participants.

“I know all of the students will be forever grateful that they had an opportunity like this. Some of the students would not have gone on a trip like this, if it weren’t for the generous support of our sponsors. One of my favorite parts of our time in Beijing was seeing the impact on students. It really can challenge them, but it also can help them see ways that they can be global leaders,” said Konan.

“Ultimately, what everyone does want to do, is to make some kind of impact on the world,” said 惭腻苍辞补 Academy Beijing student David Enriquez.

惭腻苍辞补 Academy Beijing will be offered again next summer, and is looking to expand to additional countries. For more information on the program, visit .

—By Lisa Shirota

Governor David Ige honored International Education Week 2016 in a signed proclamation presented to the during a ceremony at the State Capitol on November 18. International Education Week is an annual national and international celebration of the contributions of international education in global cooperation and bridging gaps for people worldwide. The governor remarked that diversity and cross cultural understanding are hallmarks of our state.

University of Hawaiʻi President also spoke at the ceremony, observing that Hawaiʻi’s community across public and private educational sectors were present to share this event. He noted that international education is fundamental at 东精影业 and described an array of events presented by students, faculty and guests throughout the week on campuses statewide.

Study Hawaiʻi members represent a range of educational institutions in Hawaiʻi, including public and private higher education, K–12 preparatory schools and language schools. Members support international education in the belief that it is critical to fostering peace, security, well-being and addressing global challenges that transcend national borders.

The governor’s proclamation was presented to Study Hawaiʻi President Todd Shumway of and Vice President of . Students from two Japanese universities currently attending the 东精影业 Mānoa performed a hula they learned during their stay in Hawaiʻi.

Carolina Lam, director of global education at the Center for Global Education and Exchange, has received a prestigious .

The purpose of the program is to provide international education administrators an opportunity to learn about the host country’s educational system and network with Korean and U.S. cohort colleagues. Lam will spend two weeks in June traveling throughout South Korea, meeting with representatives from the country’s universities, along with selected government and private sector agencies.

“I am honored to have been selected to participate in this program,” Lam said. “I look forward to learning more about South Korea’s culture and educational system, and visiting with at least four of our 11 partner universities that are located there.”

More about the International Education Administrators Award

The IEA award is part of the Fulbright Scholar program, which sends approximately 1,100 U.S. faculty and professionals abroad each year. Fulbright programs are international education exchanges that are sponsored by the U.S. government and designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries.

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa was selected by the and its cooperative partner, , to host an in summer 2016. Ten U.S. higher education institutions were selected as 2016 hosts.

The EducationUSA Academy is a three-to-four-week academic program that will provide intensive English language courses, college preparatory content, tours of diverse college and university campuses and cross-cultural activities to self-funded 15- to 17-year old students from around the world. Among the primary objectives of the academy is to provide opportunities for international students to improve their English skills and become more familiar with the U.S. higher education system, academic culture, campus life and admissions process.

东精影业 Mānoa’s Outreach College offers excellent English language and other types of programs for international students through its international programs division. By hosting international high school students through the EducationUSA Academy, the program looks to provide an unforgettable learning and cultural experience unlike anywhere else in the country, while exposing students from around the world to the possibility of future study in Hawaiʻi.

How to apply

Potential applicants can apply directly to the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Outreach College and applications will be accepted until March 31. More information on the program, including .

—A University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Outreach College news release

The joins universities nationwide and more than 100 countries in celebrating International Education Week 2015, November 16–20. International Education Week is an opportunity to acknowledge the benefits of educational programs that prepare 东精影业 students in Hawaiʻi for a globally interconnected environment while attracting students and future international leaders to our campuses for study and exchange.

In its 16th year, International Education Week is a joint initiative of the and .

This annual week of recognition is intended to promote international understanding and build support for international educational exchange.

Links to 东精影业 international student information or to International Education Week events

• Kapiʻolani Community College
• Maui Community College

More about 东精影业’s international programs

In fall 2015, more than 2,700 international undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in credit courses at University of Hawaiʻi campuses, with 42 percent at 东精影业 Community Colleges. In addition, many more international students throughout the system participate in non-credit courses and short term programs. International students at 东精影业 come from more than 100 countries. The 10 countries with the most students at 东精影业 in fall 2015 are Japan, Republic of Korea, China, Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Canada, Palau, Vietnam, Taiwan and the Philippines.

In addition, 东精影业 engages in international partnerships with more than 100 institutions, offers Hawaiʻi students opportunities for study abroad and hosts more than 400 international scholars annually. The diverse faculty at 东精影业 Mānoa and across the 东精影业 System offer hundreds of courses that focus on the history, culture, politics, arts, economics, business, law and environment in Asia, the Pacific and worldwide. Hamilton Library on the 东精影业 Mānoa campus houses world-class collections on Asia, the Pacific, as well as on Hawaiʻi. Students can study foreign languages at all 10 campuses of the 东精影业 System. 东精影业 campuses have internationally recognized programs in astronomy culinary arts, earth science, hospitality and tourism, international business, marine biology, oceanography, linguistics and second language studies and Pacific Islands and Asian studies.

For the first time since 2008, the NAFSA was held in Hawaiʻi from October 26–30. educators were actively involved in the event, which connected more than 550 education professionals from Hawaiʻi, California, Nevada and the Pacific Islands as well as NAFSA staff from the national headquarters in Washington, D.C. to discuss issues, trends and student mobility in the rapidly changing and dynamic field of education.

Hawaiʻi’s First Lady Dawn Amano-Ige, opened the conference, noting that education exchange with other countries is important to the governor and herself and increasingly important in today’s globalized society. An educator herself, Amano-Ige stressed the importance of education in ensuring that the next generation become global citizens and described education as a commonality that binds us among nations and communities.

Brian Grove, director of the international students and scholars office at the is this year’s Region XII chair. Immediate past chair is Steve Jacques, director of international programs at and Leeward’s Pauline Filemoni served as 2015 conference chair.

students Sage Kreisler and Kylee Sugibayashi are embarking on a journey of a lifetime, where they will live and study abroad for a year as exchange students at the in Okinawa, Japan. Each person was recommended to the program by a committee at Kauaʻi CC and formally accepted by educators at the University of the Ryukyus.

Kreisler, in his second year at Kauaʻi CC, has committed to the University of the Ryukyus total immersion program where he will concentrate on learning Japanese, hospitality and tourism and liberal arts. He plans to transfer to the after earning his degree at Kauaʻi CC.

Sugibayashi, proficient in Japanese language, wants to take full advantage of the opportunity of living in a Japanese speaking environment to further improve his skills. He will also focus on Okinawan and Japanese culture, arts and history courses of study.

Nurturing global-minded individuals

Kauaʻi CC and the University of the Ryukyus have a longstanding relationship spanning over 30 years, which now includes a student exchange agreement. The purpose of the partnership is to provide students with opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of cultures outside of their own and be nurtured into global-minded individuals.

As part of this agreement, this is the first time students from Kauaʻi CC will be studying in Okinawa. Kauaʻi CC has welcomed Okinawan students for short-term programs of study over the years and hopes to see University of the Ryukyus students on campus for year-long study.

Kyoko Ikeda, coordinator of international education at Kauaʻi CC, looks to the future and likens her role at the college to “a midwife, for things that want to be born,” she said. “My role is to prepare things to be.”

, Kauaʻi CC chancellor, views this expansion of the Kauaʻi CC and University of the Ryukyus relationship as a clear sign that the college is moving in the right direction. “The opportunity to learn about another culture, particularly from being immersed in that culture, changes not only individual lives but our collective ability to work together to address the world’s challenges,” says Cox.

—By Camilla Matsumoto