UArizona Representatives Celebrate the 120th Anniversary of Hebei University of Technology

In October, a delegation of University of Arizona representatives traveled to Tianjin, China to celebrate the 120th anniversary of UArizona microcampus partner, Hebei University of Technology (HEBUT). Delegates also attended the International Forum for University Presidents, and joined the welcome ceremony for this year’s new dual degree students at the Arizona College of Technology at Hebei University of Technology.

In commemoration of HEBUT’s 120^th anniversary, Vice President for Arizona International and Dean of International Education Dr. Jenny Lee presented Secretary Xu Han with an engraved Mata Ortiz pot, recognizing the university for its substantial history of achievement and contribution.

“I’d like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Hebei University of Technology for this remarkable 120th-year mark,” said Dr. Lee. “This achievement is a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence. It is no small feat to maintain such a distinguished position in the academic world for over a century, and we applaud their dedication to fostering innovation, knowledge, and progress.”

In attendance was Arizona International Associate Vice President for China and East Asia Affairs Charles Wang, Department Head of Materials Science and Engineering from the College of Engineering Sammy Tin, Professor of Materials Science and Engineering Pierre Deymier, Senior Program Coordinator of Materials Science and Engineering Elsa Morales, Associate Professor of Physics Srin Manne, and Associate Professor of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering Kavan Hazeli.

As part of the anniversary, HEBUT hosted over 100 university leaders from countries around the globe for the International Forum for University Presidents in Xiong’an. This year’s forum focused on proactively exploring new forms and requirements for the development of higher education and was dedicated to promoting international education and cultural exchange. Dr. Lee presented on overcoming geopolitics to further U.S.-China scientific collaborations for the purpose of greater good.  

The UArizona delegation also joined a welcome ceremony for this year’s cohort of new dual degree students at the Arizona College of Technology at Hebei University of Technology. The UArizona-HEBUT partnership was formalized by the Chinese Ministry of Education in 2020 and began enrolling the first students in 2021.

“This collaboration is more than just an educational endeavor - it represents a profound commitment to international collaboration,” said Dr. Lee. “Together, we are working towards a common goal – to nurture the next generation of engineers and scientists who will make invaluable contributions to society. Our partnership is a shining example of how education transcends borders and enriches us all.”  

UArizona and HEBUT offer dual degree programs in materials science engineering, mechanical engineering, and applied physics. Approximately 650 students are currently enrolled in the Arizona College of Technology at HEBUT.