February 27, 2025 – Dallas, TX
The University of Texas at Dallas welcomed Miss Andrea Yang, Director of the Taiwan Ministry of Education at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Houston, for a special visit to celebrate the establishment of the Taiwan Studies Initiative. This new initiative, supported by a five-year grant totaling $270,000, half from the Taiwan Ministry of Education and another half equally matched by three UTD schools, marks a significant milestone in expanding Taiwan-focused research, education, and collaboration at the university.
The Taiwan Studies Initiative will provide scholarships, support new course development, and facilitate conferences and exchange activities, fostering academic and cultural engagement between Taiwan and UTD. The initiative is led by Dr. Karl Ho, Principal Investigator and Professor of Instruction in the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences, alongside Director Mr. Hubert Zydorek, Co-Principal Investigator and Director of the Global Business Management and International Management Studies programs at the Jindal School of Management.
Strengthening Ties Through Academic Collaboration
During her visit, Miss Yang engaged with university leadership, faculty, researchers, students and community representatives who are instrumental in advancing Taiwan studies at UTD. Her itinerary included:
• A guest lecture on Taiwan’s state and society in IPEC/PSCI 4396.003, providing students with new opportunities to study and work in Taiwan.
• A strategic meeting with UTD leadership, including:
• Vice President Dr. Kyle Edgington (Development and Alumni Relations)
• EPPS Dean Dr. Jennifer Holmes
• Senior Associate Provost and Director of Center for Asian Studies Dr. Dennis Kratz
• Senior Director of International Initiatives Dr. Jennifer Hilton Montero
• Taiwan Studies Initiative faculty leadership
• Dr. Charles Ku and Mrs. Ku, representatives of the Greater Dallas Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce and advocates for Taiwan-related academic initiatives.
• A luncheon discussion with Dr. Kyle Edgington, fostering dialogue on expanding Taiwan-UTD partnerships.
• A visit to the Center for Children and Family (partner program with Taiwan Studies Initiative) where Director Dr. Mandy Maguire introduced the center’s initiatives and potential opportunities for collaboration.
A Milestone for Taiwan Studies at UTD
The Taiwan Studies Initiative represents a major step in strengthening Taiwan-related research and education in North Texas. With the support of EPPS, JSOM, and the Bass School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology, the initiative will enrich academic discourse, provide new opportunities for students, and build stronger ties between UTD and Taiwan.
The visit of Miss Andrea Yang underscores the commitment of both UTD and the Taiwan Ministry of Education to fostering mutual academic and cultural understanding. As the initiative takes shape, it promises to become a cornerstone for Taiwan-focused scholarship and international exchange at UTD.
For more information about the Taiwan Studies Initiative, please contact Dr. Karl Ho at karlho@utdallas.edu.
