Leaders from Cornell University’s College of Arts & Sciences recently visited China to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Brittany and Adam J. Levinson Program in China and Asia-Pacific Studies. This milestone was marked by the participation of Cornell delegates in the Cornell-China Forum held in Shanghai. The event also included eight Levinson Program students currently studying abroad at Peking University, fulfilling an immersive language requirement alongside courses focused on contemporary China.
Patrizia McBride, senior associate dean in Arts & Sciences and Frank H.T. Rhodes Professor of Humane Letters in the Department of German Studies, expressed pride in the program’s resilience during challenging times, particularly through the COVID-19 pandemic. “The Levinson Program is a core component of our international engagement with China and the Asia Pacific, and we’re proud it has weathered the uncertainties and challenges of COVID,” she stated. McBride noted that student interest in the program has surpassed initial expectations.
The trip featured a series of significant events aimed at fostering dialogue and collaboration. A roundtable discussion brought together college leaders, Levinson Program students and alumni, along with Adam Levinson, a 1992 alumnus who has been a major supporter of the program. Additionally, Peter John Loewen, the Harold Tanner Dean of Arts & Sciences, delivered a speech celebrating the program’s achievements during the 2025 Cornell-China Forum.
Events and Collaborations Highlight Program’s Impact
The itinerary included a panel discussion titled “Building Bridges: The Past and Future of China and Asia-Pacific Studies at Cornell.” This event focused on the evolution of the program and its ongoing relevance in academic discourse. Moreover, the Levinson Program, in collaboration with Yenching Academy at Peking University, organized a “Study China in China” conference. This gathering involved nearly 20 other China-based programs dedicated to the study of China, showcasing the extensive network and collaborative spirit fostered by the Levinson Program.
The celebration of the Levinson Program’s anniversary not only reflects its longevity but also highlights its integral role in enhancing cross-cultural understanding and academic exchange between Cornell and China. As it moves forward, the program remains committed to adapting to the changing landscape of international studies and continuing to inspire future generations of students.
For further details on the program’s initiatives and events, visit the College of Arts & Sciences website.
