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Neumann and Fan sign the MOU between WIU and China Jiliang University.
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Representatives from China Jiliang University, Rick Carter(back row, far left) and Kathleen Neuman (front row, far left).
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WIU Signs MOU with China Jiliang University

April 22, 2015

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MACOMB, IL - - A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed April 20 by Kathleen Neumann, Western Illinois University associate provost and College of Business and Technology dean, and Qingyu Fan, vice president of China Jiliang University.

"Every university has differences in their educational strengths," said Neumann. "By forming agreements like this, we help each other grow stronger."

The relationship between WIU and China Jiliang University began during Executive Director of International Studies, Distance Learning and Outreach Rick Carter's participation in the Fall 2014 State of Illinois Higher Education Trade Mission to China.

"Developing strategic international partnerships serve as an indispensable resource for our institution," Carter explained. "Through this collaboration we can build and expand new linkages and educational opportunities at Western Illinois University."

The visit to Western included a tour of the Macomb campus, as well as a meeting with Ray Diez, chair of the engineering technology department to discuss faculty scholar exchanges, shared research opportunities, future student opportunities to come to WIU and short-term programs.

Representatives from China Jiliang University were most interested in learning more about WIU's engineering technology department, as engineering is the school's most popular degree.

Jingwei Zhou, director of international exchange and cooperation at China Jiliang University, said he hopes students from both universities can communicate and learn more from one another.

"We want to be able to send students to study at WIU and bring students to China to study at our university," said Zhou.

This agreement with China Jiliang University will provide opportunities for WIU students to experience other cultures, according to Christie Carmack, WIU assistant director of international studies.

"This agreement with China Jiliang University will help WIU in its goal of internationalization and providing opportunities for the campus community to interact with other cultures, especially as we work to prepare our graduates to live and work in an increasingly globalized world," said Carmack.

For more information about the WIU International Studies program, visit
wiu.edu/international_studies

Posted By: Mary Friday (WIUNews@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing