Presidents Meeting

Meeting of College and
University Presidents
Hong Kong
November 10, 2009

Twelve college and university leaders devoted a full day in Hong Kong to sharing ideas on how to proactively respond to challenges in higher education and capitalize on emerging opportunities.  The meeting was convened by President of the United Board, Patricia Stranahan, to consult United Board partner institutions about the current environment in tertiary education and to seek feedback on its own plans for the future.

As the presidents of these institutions discussed ways to best prepare their students for a globalized world, their commitment to Christian values was evident.  They take a holistic approach to education, which encompasses the development of purpose and values as well as the pursuit of knowledge and skills.  They concentrate on offering a high quality undergraduate experience that combines excellence in academics with excellence in campus life.  And they look to develop collaborative networks of Christian colleges and universities that allow them to share their expertise with other institutions.

The United Board firmly believes that its best work is done in partnership with the best minds of its partner institutions.  This gathering in Hong Kong exemplified the value of this approach.  Earlier in 2009, in response to the global financial contraction, the United Board carefully assessed all of its programs.  At the direction of its board of trustees, it adopted new, innovative practices to ensure that it can continue it mission of enhancing Christian presence in Asian institution of higher education.  This consultation was a valuable opportunity to seek further input from partners on this new phase for the United Board, as it builds on its signature programs and activities, introduces new initiative on topics of concern and deepens its partnerships with Asian colleges and universities.

To read the summary report of the conference, click here.