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Wenxian Zhang, professor and chair of Asian studies and head of College Archives & Special Collections at Olin Library, presented his research on “The Long Arc of Global Citizenship: Historical Foundations, Modern Challenges, and Institutional Innovation at Rollins College.”

In his research, Zhang traced the concept of global citizenship back to the Greek and Roman periods of Western civilization, as well as to ancient Eastern philosophies, which represented both a prescriptive ideal and an aspirational faith in humanity. This study first reviews the rich historical roots and core values of global citizenship, along with the growing need for global citizenship education in the modern era. It then highlights several influential individuals who strongly championed its principles, including theoretical physicist and Nobel Prize winner Albert Einstein and internationalist and educator Hamilton Holt, the eighth president of Rollins. Using the educational experience of Rollins as a case study, this research also outlines how a small liberal arts institution in the United States promotes global citizenship education to address the challenges of the 21st century.

Established in 2009, the Eurasia Foundation is dedicated to the elimination of all conflicts in the world and the creation of a harmonious and peaceful society for everyone on Earth. For the past five years, the foundation has provided generous funding to support the course development in Asian studies at Rollins.

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Asian Studies at Rollins

As an Asian studies major at Rollins, you’ll immerse yourself in this diverse and fascinating region through the study of history, religion, politics, language, business, and economics. Our interdisciplinary program combines traditional courses in social sciences and the humanities with an emphasis on area study and international experience. As an Asian studies major, you’ll develop a sophisticated and reflexive worldview that embodies what it means to be a global citizen, all while preparing for tomorrow’s ever-evolving job market.

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• Wenxian Zhang