After a seamless break between the morning and afternoon sessions, participants enjoyed a delightful gathering at The Once Restaurant. The venue, surrounded by nature, provided a serene backdrop with rustling leaves and a gentle breeze. Attendees engaged in outdoor activities, witnessed an award ceremony recognizing scholarly excellence, and took part in a facilitated discussion titled “The Art of Being the ‘China Center within China.'”
Award Ceremony: Outstanding Contributions in Mentorship, Community Service, Scholarship, and Student Achievement
CSCC Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award: Dr. Qian Zhu
Dr. Qian Zhu’s receipt of the CSCC Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award is a testament to her impact, recommended by two graduated students. Professor Zhu’s commitment to fostering student success goes beyond academic guidance, encompassing innovative approaches to address the mental well-being of students, especially during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This recognition reflects the profound and lasting influence she has had on her mentees, creating a supportive and inclusive environment that extends beyond the classroom.
CSCC Outstanding Community Service Award – Dr. Stephanie Anderson
Dr. Stephanie Anderson and her LIT 109 Writing Children Stories course have been honored with the CSCC Outstanding Community Service Award for their pioneering contributions during the 2022-2023 Academic Year. This innovative course, among the first at DKU to incorporate Community-based Learning, empowered students to craft children’s stories while collaborating with the Canadian International School Kunshan (CISK). The pinnacle of this collaboration culminated in a remarkable multilingual anthology comprising approximately 20 stories, symbolizing DKU’s diverse Community-based Learning initiative and underscoring the profound impact of Dr. Anderson’s dedication to community engagement.
CSCC Outstanding Faculty Scholar Award – Dr. Fan Liang
Dr. Fan Liang, Assistant Professor of Media, is the proud recipient of the CSCC Outstanding Faculty Scholar Award, recognizing his exceptional research contributions. With six articles in top journals, a significant book chapter, and pivotal studies on China’s Social Credit System, Dr. Liang’s work in computational political communication and globalizing digital platforms exemplifies excellence in contemporary China studies, making him a deserving honoree.
CSCC Outstanding Student Scholar Award – Meichen Yap
Meichen Yap, the CSCC Outstanding Student Scholar Award recipient, excels as a senior in Behavioral Science at DKU with a stellar GPA, consistent Dean’s List inclusion, and exceptional leadership as the President of the MediHealth Podcast. As a Summer Research Scholar, she co-authored a publication in the Journal of Public Health, and her influential contributions to a meta-analysis on healthy lifestyle factors among older adults are currently under review. Meichen’s dedication to community engagement is evident in her Signature Work Project, demonstrating her well-rounded leadership style, intellectual prowess, and commitment, making her a standout recipient of this award.
