On July 29, 2024, President Ren Jianhong, Vice President Huang Leijing, along with faculty, students, and representatives from local friendship organizations, welcomed the University of Puget Sound (UPS) delegation in Kuliang for the Kuliang Connection Exchange Forum.

Welcoming Remarks and Strengthening Ties

President Ren Jianhong extended a warm welcome to the visiting American faculty and students, emphasizing the deep cultural significance of Kuliang as a historical hub for Sino-foreign exchanges.

"We are brought together here by fate, not only to appreciate the breathtaking natural scenery of Kuliang but also to immerse ourselves in its profound cultural heritage," she noted. She also expressed gratitude to the Trimble Foundation for its continued support in fostering exchanges between Hwa Nan Women’s College and the University of Puget Sound, wishing for the friendship between the two institutions to endure like the endless mountain ranges—strong and deep-rooted.

Student Presentations: A Cross-Cultural Storytelling Experience

Following the opening remarks, nine student representatives from Hwa Nan’s Cultural Education and International Business Management departments took the stage to deliver engaging presentations in fluent English. Their topics included:

• The generational legacy of Kuliang’s cross-cultural exchanges

• The outstanding contributions of Lydia Trimble, the founding president of Hwa Nan Women’s College

• The inspiring stories of Dr. Charles Trimble and Robert Trimble, key figures in Sino-American relations

• The long-standing friendship between Hwa Nan Women’s College and the University of Puget Sound

Through vivid storytelling, the students painted a historical and cultural tapestry, showcasing the enduring connections between the two institutions and their shared commitment to cultural exchange.

Professor Stuart Dowson’s Reflections on the Spirit of Kuliang

Renowned Asian Studies scholar from the University of Puget Sound, Professor Stuart Dowson, shared his insights on the spirit of Kuliang:

" Kuliang is not just a place of astonishing natural beauty; it is a living testament to a century of friendship and civilization. More than 100 years ago, people from different cultures and ethnicities lived, ate, and learned together here in harmony. This history of equality and friendly exchange is truly remarkable. On this journey, I have also been deeply moved by the kindness and sincerity of the students and faculty at Hwa Nan Women’s College. Kuliang, with its peaceful environment, provides an ideal sanctuary for self-reflection—allowing us to slow down, gather our thoughts, and rediscover ourselves."

Exchange of Gifts and In-Depth Cultural Immersion

As the event concluded, President Ren Jianhong and Vice President Huang Leijing presented carefully selected gifts to the UPS delegation, while Professor Dowson reciprocated with a gift on behalf of UPS, symbolizing the ever-growing friendship between the two institutions.

To enhance the American delegation’s understanding of Kuliang’s unique cultural heritage, Hwa Nan Women’s College organized a guided tour of several landmark sites, including:

• King Cryptomeria Park

• Dream House Library

• Universal Benevolence Society

• Kuliang Historic Architecture Exhibition Hall

• Kuliang Post Office

Through this immersive experience, the UPS faculty and students gained a deeper and more tangible appreciation of Kuliang’s multicultural legacy, further strengthening the bridge of understanding between China and the United States.

This exchange not only deepened the bonds between Hwa Nan Women’s College and the University of Puget Sound but also reinforced Kuliang’s role as a symbol of enduring Sino-American friendship.