Jon Huntsman
A physics lesson in table tennis, a view of China through American eyes, a reassessment of Confucianism and feminism, and a host of other lectures, demonstrations and events will come to The University of Akron during China Week, Oct. 8 to 15.
Jon Huntsman, former presidential candidate, U.S. ambassador to China and governor of Utah, headlines the week with the keynote address, "U.S. – China Relations in an Election Year," Monday, Oct. 15, at 7:30 p.m. at E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall.
While China Week delivers the local community at large insight into Chinese culture, it underscores the University's commitment to providing globally relevant and distinctive programs.
Global view crucial to student success
"China is a significant world power. It's a significant player in the international world market. It's a significant player in the world economy," says Holly Harris Bane, UA’s associate vice president for strategic initiatives and partnerships. "For our students who are stepping into this world economy, the more they can understand about China — the more they know about the language, the culture, the customs, the traditions — the more likely they'll be successful as they move forward into the future.
UA students demonstrate T’ai Chi during China Week 2011.
"It’s amazing just what you see, what you learn, the interaction among the students and the community and faculty," adds Harris Bane. "Many of our faculty have studied, have researched, have taught in China, so they bring a wealth of expertise. It’s a great program, a great offering."
Varied offerings
About 60 universities in the United States host Confucius Institutes. UA has one of Ohio's four Confucius Institutes, joining Cleveland State, University of Toledo and Miami University.
The weeklong lineup begins with a Tai Chi session at 8:30 a.m., Monday, Oct. 8, on Buchtel Common and ends with a traditional Chinese dumpling party from 6:30 to 8 p.m., Friday, Oct. 12, at The Chapel, 135 Fir Hill. In between, presentation topics range from "An American Who Uses Chinese Language in Business" to "Chinese Poetry Slam Accompanied by Traditional Chinese Musical Performances."
The traditional Chinese Dumpling Party is a popular part of China Week. This year, the free event will be held on Friday, Oct. 12, at 6:30 p.m. at The Chapel, 135 Fir Hill, near campus.
Visit China Week 2012 online for a complete schedule of events, or call 330-972-7570 for ticket information for the Jon Huntsman lecture.
About the Confucius Institute
The University of Akron's Confucius Institute is part of an international network, supported by the Chinese Ministry of Education, dedicated to enhancing the understanding of Chinese language and culture around the world.
The Confucius Institute promotes the expansion of Chinese language instruction through a range of educational and outreach activities for students, teachers, businesses and community members...on our campus and in our communities.
The Confucius Institute is a cooperative project of The University of Akron, the National Office of Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language, Chinese Ministry of Education and Henan University in Kaifeng.
Media contact: Denise Henry, 330-972-6477 or henryd@uakron.edu.