CSUN Lunar New Year 2026

On February 21, the China Institute at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) presented a vibrant Lunar New Year celebration. The event brought together Vice President and Provost Meera Komarraju; Wei Huang, Education Counselor from the Chinese Consulate in Los Angeles; Kent Baxter, Interim Dean of the College of Humanities; Pulitzer Prize–winning photographer and CSUN graduate Ringo Chiu and his wife; as well as nearly 200 faculty members, alumni, Chinese international students, and community representatives to celebrate the arrival of the New Year.

Vice President Komarraju remarked that the Lunar New Year symbolizes “strength, grace, and forward-moving energy.” She encouraged members of the campus community to approach the year ahead with optimism, initiative, and creativity. Drawing from her experience as a first-generation college student who once came to the United States as an international student, she highlighted the vital role cultural communities play in shaping personal development. “When we gather, we are not only celebrating tradition, but also drawing strength from one another and building a sense of belonging.” She also reaffirmed CSUN’s dedication to inclusivity, diversity, and cultural awareness, and conveyed sincere appreciation for the Chinese Institute’s commitment, professionalism, and thoughtful planning.

On behalf of the Consulate, Counselor Huang extended his New Year greetings. He highlighted that the Lunar New Year has grown into an international observance—formally recognized by the United Nations in 2023, inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2024, and designated as a state holiday in California. “Today, one-fifth of the world’s population celebrates this tradition of reunion and hope.” He also commended the enduring and fruitful collaborations between CSUN and universities in China, affirming the Consulate’s willingness to continue expanding educational partnerships and opportunities for youth engagement.

Interim Dean Baxter reflected on the significance of spring as “renewal and new beginnings.” He expressed appreciation to the China Institute for its more than four decades of commitment to advancing Chinese culture, fostering academic partnerships, and supporting student exchange initiatives. “This celebration is not just a festival—it is a living classroom for cross-cultural understanding.” He also recognized the leadership and vision of Center Director Dr. Wei Cao and extended thanks to all the performers and volunteers who contributed to the event’s success.

The event also included the presentation of the “Distinguished Alumni Contribution Award” to Chinese American graduates Ao Bei and Qi Hao in recognition of their achievements and contributions.

As part of the academic exchange segment of the program, Dr. Meiqin Wang from the Art Department shared insights from her fieldwork on contemporary Chinese art. Associate Professor Dr. Junliang Huang provided updates on the development of the Chinese language curriculum. In addition, Drs. Yue Zhang and Wei Cao, along with several students, spoke about their academic exchange experiences in Hangzhou at Zhejiang University of Finance & Economics (ZUFE) and in Wenzhou at Wenzhou Polytechnic University.

Participants who traveled to ZUFE spoke highly of Hangzhou’s blend of modern development and rich cultural heritage, highlighting its traditions of porcelain, silk, calligraphy, and distinctive cuisine. They observed that Chinese dining customs center on shared dishes rather than individual servings, a practice that encourages stronger social connections. The group was deeply touched by the city’s legendary stories and captivated by its scenic landscapes and remarkable architecture. During the visit, CSUN representatives also explored possibilities for future academic partnerships with ZUFE.

Dr. Cao and her students characterized the week-long immersive program in Wenzhou as a meaningful academic and cultural experience. Through guided visits to historic landmarks, bilingual lectures, and interactive cultural activities—including an introduction to Wenzhou’s distinctive hair-embroidery craft—the program expanded students’ cross-cultural perspectives and strengthened their global awareness. It also enabled them to link classroom learning with practical realities, particularly in areas such as linguistic diversity and the region’s entrepreneurial spirit.

Students shared that Wenzhou’s culture of innovation and strong work ethic left a lasting impression on their academic and professional ambitions. Touring AI-powered manufacturing facilities and advanced engineering laboratories, as well as engaging with motivated university students and local business leaders, offered firsthand insight into how technology, discipline, and determination can drive community transformation. These experiences encouraged them to pursue their respective fields—linguistics, urban planning, and interior design—with renewed clarity and commitment, illustrating how international exchange opportunities can spark inspiration and create meaningful pathways toward future success.

One of the significant highlights of the event was the silent auction, which featured unique items generously donated by Mr. Hou Kun (Member of the International Olympic Committee for Culture and Olympic Heritage and Executive Vice President of the Chinese Sport Philately and Collection Association) and Ms. Wu Jingyu (former athlete of the Chinese Women’s Taekwondo Team, world champion, and two-time Olympic champion). The auction showcased valuable memorabilia capturing historic moments in global sports. All proceeds will support CSUN China Institute activities related to the LA28 Olympics.

The items included a Michael Jordan Limited Edition Collectible Medal Set, The Burlingame Treaty (1868) – High-Resolution Facsimile Collector’s Edition, an IOC Custom Olympic Rings Necklace, the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Participation Medal, and many other stunning pieces. The silent auction attracted a great deal of attention and was a big hit with attendees.

Dancing Spirit Group, founded in 2015, is a vibrant community dance ensemble formed by mothers from the West San Fernando Valley who first connected through their children’s Chinese school. Under the leadership of Casey Wu, the group thoughtfully blends traditional Chinese folk dance with contemporary artistic elements and frequently performs at cultural events throughout the community.

Their performance, “Love Song of Kangding,” draws inspiration from traditional Tibetan dance and incorporates modern rhythmic interpretations. The piece highlights the bold, free-spirited, and passionate character of the Kamba Tibetan people, creating a presentation that is both culturally rich and visually engaging.

Traditional folk art booths, featuring crafts such as dough figurines and sugar painting, were particularly popular among families and children. Young performers also staged a program centered on the Chinese zodiac, showcasing the vibrant intergenerational passing down of Chinese cultural traditions.

The children delivered a performance inspired by the twelve zodiac animals, beautifully illustrating the intergenerational continuation and sharing of Chinese cultural traditions.

The artistic program featured a wide range of impressive performances, including a violin and electric piano duet of Ave Maria by Xiaocheng Mu and Shitao Li, a soprano solo by Nan Cui, a harmonica performance by Daxing Zhang, and a traditional long-spout teapot tea-art demonstration by “Master Ming.” Each act was met with warm and enthusiastic applause from the audience.