Onward and Upward: Wenzhou-Kean University Commemorates the 10th Anniversary of Establishment

The 10th anniversary of the Chinese Ministry of Education's establishment of Wenzhou-Kean University was celebrated in grand style in CBPM’s Hall on October 21 where distinguished guests gathered to commemorate the institution’s key milestones.  

The Chairman of the Board of Directors of WKU, Mr. Wang Beijiao, presided over the event. In his opening address, he extended heartfelt gratitude to all levels of governments, departments, fellow universities, and all other supporters who have contributed to the development of Wenzhou-Kean University.

The past decade has seen WKU make tremendous strides to build an international high-level university and become a model of China-foreign cooperation in education, facilitate people-to-people exchange, and become a cradle of international talents. Chairman Wang stated that WKU will boost academic vitality with further reform and implement an innovation-driven development strategy.

"Today, we have much to celebrate: the realization of dreams — dreams of friendship and collaboration, dreams of innovation and education — and of shared aspirations turned into reality." 

Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D., emphasized WKU’s special role as a bridge that connects the youth and future leaders of China and the U.S. President Repollet noted that WKU has become an anchor institution for the Wenzhou community and a critical player in education, business, government, and society. He hopes the next decade will bring new opportunities and new challenges to conquer. "Together, we will continue to climb higher — driven by the belief that education is the pathway to a more successful, more connected future," remarked President Repollet.

Ms. Tang Xiaoshu, Deputy Director of the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Education applauded WKU's progress in international education cooperation and its commitment to culture and people-to-people exchanges. She is looking on with keen interest at WKU's contribution to higher education reform at the provincial and national levels.

Secretary of CPC Wenzhou University Committee Mr. Qian Qiang, who witnessed the founding of WKU in its incipient stages, remarked that WKU has already forged a road of openness and innovation in its operation. He declared that Wenzhou University will work together with Wenzhou-Kean University and Kean University in the United States for an even closer relationship to expand China-U.S. youth communication and educational exchanges.

Dr. Rob Kim Marjerison, Associate Professor and Program Director of Global Business and Global MBA, delivered a speech on behalf of the faculty team. After joining WKU seven years ago, he has seen WKU build a reputation for high-quality education and research. He believes WKU offers a platform for youths from afar to experience world-class education and learn about Chinese culture and history. Looking ahead, he sees WKU strengthening exchanges and cooperation in education and deepening the China-U.S. friendship.

The event also featured speeches from student and alumni representatives. Communication major, Ms. Liu Yanxi, noted that studying at WKU opened her eyes to a diverse world and endowed her with the confidence to face challenges. More importantly, she adopted the role of an international communication ambassador, bridging cultures and sharing China's stories. Speaking on behalf of WKU’s Alumni, Ms. Ye Junjun proclaimed that her days at WKU ignited her career and she expressed her commitment to spreading that passion to others.

The event also saw the official release of WKU's "Ten Major Events of the First Ten Years,” which chronicled WKU's internationalization and development.

WKU’s success would not have been possible without the longstanding support of the government. Mr. Zhang Zhenfeng, Deputy Governor of the People's Government of Zhejiang, Secretary of the CPC Wenzhou Municipal Party Committee, commended WKU for charting a new path in Sino-foreign educational cooperation and writing a new chapter of mutual growth with Wenzhou city over the past decade. Mr. Zhang hopes WKU accelerates its efforts of building a world-class, high-level university with a global perspective.

The past 10 years were exciting and we can’t wait to see what the next 10 years has in store for WKU!

Writer: Wenwei XIANG
Proofreader: Abbigail Ajim