Launching of The CSUN Chinese Alumni Chapter

The CSUN Chinese Alumni Chapter was officially launched on January 31, 2025, during a preparatory gathering held on campus ahead of 2025 Lunar New Year celebrations. The event was attended by CSUN President Erika D. Beck, Chinese Deputy Consul General Hongjiang Huang, Education Consuls Xuejing Sun and Jin Guo, College of Humanities Dean Jeffrey Reeder, along with distinguished keynote speakers Mr. Leo Chu and Mrs. Yan Luo, five former China Institute directors, and over 100 alumni, faculty, and students.

The launch of the Chinese Alumni Association was a university-supported initiative led by Dr. Wei Cao, Director of the CSUN China Institute, reflecting CSUN’s commitment to fostering global connections and alumni engagement. In her remarks, Dr. Cao emphasized the association as a new platform for unity, collaboration, and celebrating Chinese achievements. CSUN President Erika D. Beck voiced strong institutional support and aligned the initiative with her broader vision for the university’s inclusive and international future. Additional support came from Christina Mena of CSUN’s Office of Alumni Relations and Development, who outlined the alumni network and encouraged Chinese alumni to participate actively. The presence of Chinese Deputy Consul General Huang Hongjiang further underscored the significance of the association in promoting Sino-American educational cooperation. Former China Institute Directors Drs. Paul Chow, Zhi-Xin Su, and Wei-Min Sun reminisced about the institute’s early development and envisioned future collaboration, while founding member Dr. Paul Chow delivered a memorable address and celebrated his 98th birthday with attendees.

The event also highlighted alumni achievements and ongoing collaboration. Entrepreneur and philanthropist Leo Chu spoke on the value of alumni networks for sharing resources, while Hollywood producer Yan Luo offered mentorship for student-led projects. Alumni leaders Mr. Jie Zhao and Attorney Qi Hao were appointed to guide the chapter’s development. Updates were shared by Dr. Junliang Huang on Chinese language programs and by Dr. Hongshan Shao, who recounted leading psychology students on a study tour across China—demonstrating CSUN’s continued commitment to global engagement and cultural exchange. The ceremony featured remarks from university leadership, consular officials, and distinguished alumni. The launch of the Chinese Alumni Chapter marks a significant milestone in CSUN’s efforts to expand its global alumni network and deepen U.S.-China educational exchange.