On the morning of April 26, Kuliang welcomed a group of special visitors. At the invitation of Professor Gordon Trimble and his wife, foreign faculty at our school and long-time “Friends of Kuliang”, alumnae from the U.S., Canada, Germany, and various regions across China gathered on this historically rich land. Through site visits and in-depth conversations, they traced the cultural roots of the Kuliang spirit and explored the mission of carrying forward education in the new era.

The alumnae visited several significant landmarks, including the old Trimble family residence, the Kuliang Historic Architecture Exhibition Hall, the Kuliang Stories Exhibition at the International Public Welfare Society, the Cryptomeria Park, and the Kuliang Family Stories Pavilion. At these meaningful locations, they witnessed the prosperity and transformation of Kuliang over the years and felt the warmth and legacy left by predecessors on this land.

At the exchange forum, Professor Gordon Trimble delivered a heartfelt speech titled "Women's Education and the Kuliang Spirit." He fondly recalled his father, Gordon Trimble Sr.’s childhood on Kuliang—where he learned to play tennis and swim—but what stayed with him most were his Chinese playmates. Professor Trimble shared that every visit to Kuliang feels like a spiritual renewal and a deep reflection on how to become a better person. He believes that the alumnae’s stories shared over the two-day visit will plant seeds of dreams and hope in the hearts of every student present. Their words not only showcased the powerful influence and exemplary strength of Hwa Nan alumnae but also revealed their profound love and unwavering commitment to their alma mater.

President Ren Jianhong warmly welcomed the visiting alumnae on behalf of the school. She recalled that in 1984, thanks to the tireless efforts of several alumnae, the new Hwa Nan was reestablished on Yantai Hill. Since then, alumnae have been a driving force in Hwa Nan’s development and a crucial link in passing down both the Kuliang spirit and the Hwa Nan legacy. President Ren then gave a keynote speech titled "The Future of Hwa Nan," sharing the school’s recent development vision in four key areas:

1. Focus on two major commemorative events this year: the 40th anniversary of the school's reopening and the 30th anniversary of the commemorative inscription.

2. Optimize academic program structure to enhance the school's core competitiveness.

3. Strengthen faculty development and continue improving teaching quality;

4. Uphold an open approach to education, expanding future opportunities for students.

Following this, North American alumnae also shared their stories and reflections. Alumna Chen Ling gave a talk titled "Is It Easier for Educated Chinese Women to Succeed Abroad?" Drawing from her own experience, she described life as a long journey where continuous learning and self-improvement are key. Her time at Hwa Nan was pivotal, giving her the motivation and confidence to keep moving forward and pursue success overseas.

Alumna Zhang Xia recounted the challenges of building an overseas website for the North American alumnae association. To expand the school’s global influence, recruit more foreign teachers, and help raise educational funds, the North American alumnae undertook the difficult task of creating an international website. Whenever they felt like giving up, they were inspired by the perseverance of Hwa Nan’s trailblazing women.

Alumna Wang Xiaoyan shared her difficult journey during the early years of university. Through resilience and relentless effort, she eventually became a researcher at Harvard University. She attributed her achievements to her time at Hwa Nan, where she met her mentor, Dr. Betts Rivét, a foreign professor who significantly broadened her perspective.

To conclude the event, North American alumna Chen Ling and Professor Gordon Trimble, representing the North American alumnae association, presented two awards:

• The 2025 Excellence in Legacy Scholarship Achievement Award to alumna Zhang Xia,

• The 2025 Kuliang Spirit Lifetime Achievement Award to former Hwa Nan President Lin Benchun.

President Chen Guifang, on behalf of the North American alumnae association, presented the 2025 "Gordon Trimble Award" and the 30th Anniversary International Kuliang Spirit Communication Award to the University of Puget Sound in the U.S.

This special reunion at Kuliang was not just a gathering of old friends, it was a powerful continuation of the Kuliang and Hwa Nan spirit. With these guiding values, Hwa Nan is sure to move forward and embrace a brighter future.