Alfred University faculty, students present at Chinese Language Education Conference

Daisy Wu (left), Max Rasilla (center) and Angelina Olivera present at the Chinese Language Education Conference for New York State, held Oct. 11 in Buffalo.

On October 11, Zhongbei (Daisy) Wu, clinical associate professor of music and language at Alfred University, along with two students, Max Rasilla and Angelina Olivera, represented Alfred University and the Division of Modern Languages at the 3rd Annual Chinese Language Education Conference for New York State, held in Buffalo.

Their presentation, "Connecting K-12 and Higher Education: A Cultural Perspective on the Chinese Language Program at Alfred University," explored the vital connection between K-12 Chinese education and higher education, with a focus on Alfred University's new Chinese Language and Culture minor. The session emphasized the importance of integrating cultural understanding with language learning, creating a more holistic educational experience. By sharing data, discussing curriculum development, and featuring testimonials from students who successfully transitioned from their K-12 Chinese language education to university-level courses, the presentation aimed to inspire K-12 administrators and educators to support sustainable Chinese language programs and smooth transitions into college.

The conference was highly successful, and Wu's presentation received positive feedback from numerous educators and officials, including representatives from the New York State Education Department's Office of World Languages. Rasilla, a senior B.F.A. major, minoring in Chinese Language and Culture, and Olivera, a sophomore Political Science and Philosophy major, also minoring in Chinese Language and Culture, both played key roles in the success of the presentation. Their dedication and enthusiasm for learning demonstrated the value of the minor program and underscored the importance of integrating cultural studies with language education.

The new Chinese Language and Culture minor at Alfred University offers students a multidisciplinary approach to language learning. A distinguishing feature of this minor is its strong emphasis on cultural courses, which complement the language curriculum. As a comprehensive university, Alfred University draws on its broad academic resources to integrate a variety of cultural courses-ranging from philosophy to art, music, and history-into the program. This integration reflects the university's commitment to providing a well-rounded and enriching educational experience.

Wu, who also serves as the Chinese Language and Culture Minor coordinator, expressed her deep appreciation for the collaboration and support from colleagues across multiple departments, including the Division of Modern Languages, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, School of Art and Design and Performing Arts Division and other schools at Alfred University. Their contributions have been essential in building a distinctive minor that highlights Alfred University's strength as a comprehensive institution.