On the afternoon of September 13, 2024, the opening ceremony for the 39th Certificate Program and the 19th Master’s Program of the Johns Hopkins University–Nanjing University Center for Chinese and American Studies (HNC) was held at HNC. Ding Aijun, Assistant President of NJU, attended the event and delivered a speech. James B. Steinberg,  Dean of the School of Advanced International Studies at Johns Hopkins University (SAIS) and former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, addressed the gathering via video. This semester, 118 new students from China, the United States, Germany, Singapore, Italy and other countries joined the HNC.

In his speech, Ding Aijun welcomed the new students on behalf of NJU. He shared his own story of how he discovered a new line of research during an air pollution incident, inspiring students to understand that success stems from both diligence and keen insight. He also encouraged students to enhance people-to-people exchanges, and contribute to the peace and development of the world.

James B. Steinberg, in his video message, welcomed the newcomers to the HNC and expressed excitement about their participation in this unique educational collaboration. He encouraged the students to maintain an open mindset and a spirit of collaboration, and work together to promote academic progress and international exchange to create a brilliant future. 

Li Xiaorong and Adam K Webb, the Co-Directors of HNC, hosted the ceremony and introduced all faculty members and visiting scholars from both sides for the 2024–2025 academic year. 

Source: Hopkins–Nanjing Center