From December 10 to 14, 2024, a delegation led by President Han Wenzhong visited Saint Martin’s University (SMU) in the United States, marking a significant step in deepening international exchanges and strengthening ties with NCIAE’s first Sino-foreign cooperative education partner.
The delegation was received by SMU President William Brownsberger. Both sides reviewed the history of their partnership and celebrated the achievements of the joint program. President Brownsberger noted that this was the first visit by NCIAE’s leadership since the collaboration began, emphasizing its profound significance. He expressed confidence that the visit would not only deepen understanding of SMU’s educational philosophy but also accelerate the breadth and depth of bilateral cooperation.
President Han Wenzhong began by congratulating President Brownsberger on his appointment as the 12th president of SMU. He remarked that the joint undergraduate program in Mechanical Design, Manufacturing, and Automation—the first of its kind approved by the Chinese Ministry of Education for NCIAE—holds milestone significance for the university’s international development. He attributed the program’s success to mutual trust, understanding, and the dedication of faculty and staff from both institutions.
During the visit, the delegation toured SMU’s School of Engineering, School of Business, and Office of International Programs. They attended a meeting with engineering faculty to discuss program operations, student development, and teaching improvements. Exploratory talks were held regarding potential MBA programs in business, as well as short-term academic exchanges for faculty and students. Discussions also focused on ensuring teaching quality and student learning outcomes in the joint program. The delegation observed engineering lab sessions, gaining insights into SMU’s lab curriculum and instructional methods. They also visited classrooms, dormitories, dining facilities, athletic centers, and study spaces to better understand student life and academic support.
The delegation met with NCIAE students currently studying at SMU. President Han encouraged them to overcome challenges, focus on their studies, and make the most of this valuable opportunity.
The group also visited Deng Yu, a 1996 graduate of NCIAE’s Mechanical Manufacturing and Technology program now working in the U.S. They learned about his entrepreneurial journey and current life, and exchanged ideas on alumni association work, the development of overseas alumni chapters, and connections with Pace University in the field of engineering education.
NCIAE and Saint Martin’s University established their partnership in 2015. The joint undergraduate program in Mechanical Design, Manufacturing, and Automation was approved by the Ministry of Education in 2016 and began enrolling students in 2017. To date, the program has produced four graduating cohorts. This visit—the first by NCIAE’s top leadership to SMU—holds significant importance for deepening collaboration and ensuring the program’s sustainable growth.
Chen Jian, Director of the International Cooperation and Exchange Center, and Li Zhijie, Dean of the School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, accompanied the delegation.
