When one culture encounters another, when one idea merges with another, what kind of remarkable stories will unfold?

This warm winter, as plum blossoms and magnolias bloom across the campus, Hwa Nan Women’s College once again welcomed friends from across the ocean. This semester, the college hosted two esteemed delegations—the “China Scholars” Program delegation from Sacred Hearts Academy in Hawaii and the President of the University of Puget Sound (UPS), along with his team.

First Post-Pandemic International Delegation: Sacred Hearts Academy Visit

From October 7 to 17, 2023, a delegation of eight students and faculty members from Sacred Hearts Academy arrived in Fujian for an 11-day cultural exchange program. This visit marked the first overseas delegation hosted by the college since the lifting of pandemic travel restrictions.

Through unique cultural experiences and heartfelt interactions with faculty and students, the guests from across the Pacific gradually became part of the Hwa Nan family. With warm smiles and enthusiastic engagement, they immersed themselves in Chinese traditions, embracing the beauty of cross-cultural friendship.

Bob’s Friendship Dinner: Strengthening Bonds

On the evening of October 15, Gordon Mills Trimble and his wife hosted the Bob’s Friendship Dinner (Trimble Friendship Banquet) in honor of new and old friends. Distinguished guests included:

• Li Lin, Director of the Fujian Provincial Foreign Affairs Office

• Chen Guoquan, Deputy Director of the Fujian Provincial Foreign Affairs Office

• Zhang Wei, Deputy Director of the Fuzhou Municipal Foreign Affairs Office

• Yu Rongmin, Chairman of the Hwa Nan Board of Directors

• Ren Jianhong, President of Hwa Nan Women’s College

• Li Tingwang, Party Secretary of Hwa Nan Women’s College

• Huang Leijing, Vice President of Hwa Nan Women’s College, along with faculty and students

This special evening further deepened friendships between Hwa Nan Women’s College and its international partners, fostering meaningful conversations and shared aspirations for the future. 

Exploring the Legacy of Kuliang: A Cross-Cultural Dialogue

On October 16, faculty and students from both institutions embarked on a cultural exploration of Kuliang, visiting key historical and cultural landmarks such as:

• Kuliang Old Street

• Former Residence of Lydia Trimble (Founder of Hwa Nan Women’s College)

At the Yixia Villa—Kuliang Sino-Western Cultural Exchange Center, both schools participated in the "Kuliang Connection: Writing a New Chapter" Forum, where students and scholars shared reflections on the lasting impact of Kuliang’s history as a symbol of cultural harmony.

A Special Gift: Celebrating Fujian’s Heritage

During the event at Kuliang • Shuxiang Minjiang Xinhua Book Station, representatives from the Fujian and Fuzhou Foreign Affairs Offices presented Gordon Mills Trimble, his wife, and the Sacred Hearts Academy delegation with two books:

• Ancient Dwellings of Fujian

• World Heritage Sites of Fujian 

These gifts symbolized the rich cultural heritage of Fujian and the ongoing bridge of friendship between China and the United States.

A Future of Continued Exchange

This memorable visit was more than just an academic exchange—it was a celebration of shared values, history, and enduring friendship. As cultural ties grow stronger, Hwa Nan Women’s College remains committed to fostering international cooperation and dialogue, ensuring that each new chapter of the “Kuliang Connection” continues to inspire generations to come.