To mark 25 years of the only IAJU institution in the Chinese Mainland, The Beijing Center for Chinese Studies gathered friends and alumni on the evening of November 28 to cherish the sweet memories of the past and look forward to the bright future.

The Beijing Center for Chinese Studies had seven brave students in the inaugural class of 1998, but now alumni and friends of TBC number in the thousands. We are proud to be involved in a legacy of engagement, conversation, and global change that sprouts from encouraging educational exchange. At the 25th Anniversary Kickoff Party, Board of Directors Chairman Dr. Tony Moreno spoke about the dual values of courage and creativity that will continue to take this mission—and the centuries-old tradition of East-West friendship—far into the future.

This momentous year will be celebrated by offering unique opportunities to get engaged with China, more anniversary gatherings, special dialogues and forums, and more. It also heralds a new era with Stephen Tong, S.J., being selected as the new Chair of the Board of Directors. Mr. Tong also serves as the Provincial of the Chinese Jesuit Province.

“The magic of TBC is that in learning about other cultures, you come face-to-face with a greater understanding of your own,” said Dr. Simon Koo, Executive Director of The Beijing Center. “No matter where you’re from, engaging with TBC brings you closer to yourself. And in that process, it also brings you closer to the friends you make along the way, whether they be from your own culture or not. We’re so excited to celebrate twenty-five years of this magic and look forward to the uncertain future of more friendship and exchange with Mr. Tong at the helm.”

TBC’s 25th Anniversary Kickoff Party brought old and new friends together from over ten countries, some of whom traveled across oceans and continents to join us. Features of the night included international cuisines that reflected TBC’s commitment to diversity and gifts of reusable cutlery as a statement on Caring for Our Common Home, a Jesuit-influenced movement towards sustainability. And, of course, a cake to represent the sweet memories that 25 years of cultural dialogue has brought about.

We thank all of our guests, alumni, visitors, family, and friends who we hold in our hearts for their contributions to our continued existence as a bridge between China and the world. Together with you, we look forward to 25 more years of excellence and beyond.