Utah State University President Stan Albrecht met with a delegation from Far East University, Eumsung, Chungbook, Republic of Korea, including Far East President Kee Il Lyu. The meeting was capped when the university presidents signed an “Agreement of Cooperation” between the two universities.

 

“Utah State University is pleased to sign this agreement with our colleagues from Far East University,” Albrecht said. “We look forward to developing programs that will benefit the students and faculty from both institutions.”

 

The Korean delegation included a number of administrators and program leaders from Far East University. The group participated in a two-day visit to USU, touring campus and meeting with a wide array of programs and departments.

 

The Agreement of Cooperation formalized the university’s cooperation to develop academic exchanges and cooperation in teaching and research. Student exchanges and study abroad opportunities are important.

 

“This is a win-win situation for Utah State University and Far East University,” said Mary Hubbard, vice provost for international education at USU.

 

Student exchanges would be a one-to-one exchange — for every Far East University student coming to USU, a Utah State University student would travel to Korea. The Korean University has proposed some financial incentives in the program, making the study abroad possibility more accessible, Hubbard said.

 

The relationship between the universities was facilitated by Yun Kim, a former USU professor who is now the Endowed Chair Professor of Social Science and Dean of Academic Affairs at Far East University. Kim was a member of the delegation visiting USU.

 

“This is the first step in our association,” Hubbard said. “More detailed proposals for faculty and student projects will be developed. This is another exciting development in our efforts to increase international education.”

 

USU administrators who took part in the agreement signing included Hubbard, President Albrecht and Executive Vice President and Provost Raymond T. Coward. The Korean delegation included President Lyu; Yun Kim; Duck Chang Hyan, professor of computer science and dean of academic affairs; Jung Nam Lee, department head, social welfare; Sue Jung Lee, department head, nursing; Joon Soo Lee, department head, animation; Eui Whan Choi, head master of Gwacheon International High School, Seoul; and Mira Hwang, program officer, International Education.

 

 

Writer: Patrick Williams, 435-797-1354, patrick.williams@usu.edu