East-West Center Welcomes 128 New Student Fellows

For the first time in the East-West Center’s history, students from Oceania comprise the largest percentage of incoming EWC student participants, thanks to the establishment of the Center’s Pacific Islands Leadership Program and several other new programs geared toward Pacific islanders. Students also hail from the U.S., most countries in Asia, and as far away as Italy and Zambia.

During special orientation and community-building activities prior to the start of the fall semester, the Center welcomed 128 new student fellows from more than 41 countries and territories. The majority of the new students are pursuing graduate degree programs through the University of Hawai‘i, while about 50 of the arrivals are participants in EWC’s expanding roster of leadership certificate programs.

“The East-West Center truly attracts the best and brightest young talent from around the world and the United States,” said EWC President Charles E. Morrison. “Our new students are committed to a unique educational experience, one tailored not just toward acquiring professional skills for individuals, but one connected with the Center’s mission of building understanding, relations, and a sense of community across the vast and dynamic Asia-Pacific region. EWC students acquire skills, knowledge, networks, and values that prepare them to be effective future leaders of the region and world.”

Before beginning their regular studies, all new East-West Center students participate in a two-week Community Building Institute, featuring a wide variety of workshops, field trips and activities to develop collaborative team-building, cooperative study, cross-cultural understanding, regional literacy, leadership and service.

About the East-West Center

The EAST-WEST CENTER promotes better relations and understanding among the people and nations of the United States, Asia, and the Pacific through cooperative study, research, and dialogue. Established by the U.S. Congress in 1960, the Center serves as a resource for information and analysis on critical issues of common concern, bringing people together to exchange views, build expertise, and develop policy options.