China Showcase Event on the UA Mall

Feb. 8, 2019
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A message from Albert Welter, Head of the East Asian Studies Department

"I’m happy to report the extraordinary success of the China Showcase event on the UA Mall yesterday (Friday). I hope you all had a chance to attend. It was really great––a wonderful opportunity to promote the ongoing success of EAS, particularly the China programs. The event covered everything from a “What did Confucius really say?” test, Chinese tea explanation and tea ceremony presentation, Chinese costume fashion show, Chinese language students singing demonstration (I was unaware of what hidden talent we have!), poster drawings from students of Chinese literary heroes, chopstick competition, a study-abroad photography contest, and so much more! Many thanks to all who joined in the fun, especially student volunteers who did so much to make it a success. It made me really proud to be a member of such a creative and vibrant community. Special thanks to Professors Camp, Diao, Du, and Gregory, who were instrumental in the planning to make the event such a success. And also to Theresa, who along with her minions did so much to create the poster boards and attend to all the details that go into an event such as this. What a lot of fun! A hearty thanks to all of you. It was so nice to see EAS and China take over the UA mall for a day. Maybe again next year?"

 

Buddhist Compassion

When
3:30 – 5 p.m., March 22, 2016

Author of Buddhist Fasting Practice  The Nyungne Method of Thousand Armed Chenrezig, Wangchen Rinpoche was recognized as a Tulku at an early age by Dorje Chang Kalu Rinpoche, and is a lineage holder of the Kagyu Shanga-pa sect and teaches widely in Asia and Europe.

Informal conversation with Rinpoche and light refreshment following the talk


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Buddhist Studies: Past, Present, Future

When
4 – 5 p.m., April 6, 2016

Abstract:

Defining Buddhist Studies has become more difficult as disciplinary structures are being questioned for relevance and accountability. Where should Buddhism be studied in a time when the literature is filled with “obituaries” of established practices and institutions? How important is it for the field to become a clearly mapped knowledge “territory”? Is it possible to conceive of an approach between scholars that is collaborative and even interdependent? Can knowledge produced in the context of application within the digital realm be accepted? Is there information that will be suppressed in the ensuing debate?  Will the future bring a broader system of quality control? Is this a moment of singularity where potentials are available to signal an era of creativity?

 

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Join us in Welcoming Scholars from Kyushu University

When
4 – 8 p.m., March 21, 2016

Join us in welcoming scholars from Kyushu University who are participating in our 

Kyushu University and University of Arizona Symposium,

Topics in Language, Literature and Culture, which will be held at 

The University of Arizona Poetry Center 4-7PM, March 21, 2016 (Reception 7-8PM)

 

Celebrate Homecoming 2015 with East Asian Studies!

When
11:30 a.m. – 8 p.m., Oct. 23, 2015

11:30 AM   HOMECOMING BBQ BASH

Location: UA Mall, east of Old Main | Cost: $35

Enjoy food, music, and more while mingling with fellow Wildcats. Open to ALL UA friends, alumni, faculty, staff, and students. Buy your tickets here.

 

1:30 PM  COLLEGIATE SHOWCASE

 

The Future of China’s Past: Looking into the Meaning of China’s Rise

Location: Student Union Memorial Center, Kiva Room | FREE!

What does China’s cultural renaissance bode for the future? Head of East Asian Studies Albert Welter discusses current engagements with models of China’s past with an eye toward exploring the possibilities shaping China’s (and the world’s) future.

 

3:30 PM  POETRY CENTER OPEN HOUSE

Location: UA Poetry Center, 1508 E. Helen St.  |  FREE!

Drop in for docent-led tours of the renowned Poetry Center and peruse the library’s prominent permanent collection and current Baja Arizona exhibition in the gallery.

 

6:00 PM  EAST ASIAN STUDIES ALUMNI RECEPTION

Location: Yume Japanese Gardens, 2130 N. Alvernon Way  |  Cost: $15  

Relax at Tucson’s beautiful Yume Japanese Gardens. This tranquil setting is the perfect place for alumni, faculty, students, and staff to mingle while enjoying the gardens. Sample fine Asian cuisine and spend time socializing with friends old and new. Tickets and more information available here.

 

COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES ALUMNA OF THE YEAR  

Brandy DeVelbiss Christian

Our distinguished alumna Brandy DeVelbiss Christian (EAS ‘95) has been successfully putting her East Asian Studies degree to good use in her current position as Chief Operating Officer of the Port of New Orleans, the fifth busiest port in North America. Brandy’s insights into Chinese language and culture launched her career at the Port of San Diego where she pursued international business opportunities. Her ability to speak Chinese has helped propel her career and strengthen her Asian business relationships. Her experience is a shining example of humanities at work in the real world. Welcome back to the UA, Brandy!

 

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Jon Dorschner

Retired Foreign Service Officer
U.S. Department of State
M.A.
East Asian Studies
1976
Ph.D.
East Asian Studies
1981

My University of Arizona education allowed me to serve as a leading expert on South Asian affairs for the Department of State and serve in South Asian embassies and South Asian jobs in Washington, D.C.

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Arizona

Chinese New Year Celebration 2026

Celebrate the Year of the Horse with the Chinese Language Program!

When
3:30 – 5:30 p.m., Feb. 16, 2026

Sponsored by Huayu BEST Funding from the Taipei Economic & Culture Office, Los Angeles

The Department of East Asian Studies’ Chinese Language Program warmly invites you to an exciting afternoon of festivities in honor of the Chinese Lunar New Year. Enjoy traditional Chinese games, authentic Chinese music, lion dance performances, and savor authentic cuisine while immersing yourself in the vibrant spirit of the holiday.

Through these interactive activities, you’ll discover aspects of Chinese leisure culture, learn New Year-themed vocabulary, and practice language skills in a fun, engaging way—all within the joyful atmosphere of this cherished celebration. No prior experience is needed.

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The East Asian Language and Culture Festival 2026

Discover East Asia through Language, Culture, and Community

When
11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Feb. 18, 2026

Join the Department of East Asian Studies and the Center for East Asian Studies to celebrate the languages and cultures of East Asia! This event is free and open to the public and will feature fun cultural activities and live performances, including:

  • Chinese Fan Dance
  • Chinese Lion Dance
  • Japanese Karaoke
  • K-Pop Dance Covers
  • Taekwondo
  • And so much more!

Connect with our community and learn more about our classes, majors, minors, and study abroad opportunities! If you're interested in studying East Asian Studies, please get in touch with Dr. Camp at eas-advising@arizona.edu.

Learn more about our yearly festival here!

Movie Screening: Tokyo Godfathers

A compassionate and compelling winter tale by Satoshi Kon.

When
4 – 6 p.m., Dec. 18, 2025

Join us for a screening of Tokyo Godfathers, the acclaimed animated film that follows three homeless companions who find an abandoned infant and embark on an emotional journey across Tokyo. Blending humor, humanity, and holiday spirit, this film offers a powerful look at hope and community.

Movie Screening: Belle

From acclaimed director Mamoru Hosoda

When
4 – 6 p.m., Nov. 13, 2025

Join us for a free screening of Belle, the visually breathtaking animated film by Studio Chizu and director Mamoru Hosoda (The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, Summer Wars). The story follows Suzu, a shy high school student whose life transforms when she enters “U,” a vast virtual world where she becomes a beloved singer known as Belle. As her two worlds begin to collide, Suzu must find the courage to reveal her true self. 

© 2021 Studio Chizu / GKIDS. Used under fair use for educational and promotional purposes.