Newsletter 6: Science, Education, and Founders' Initiative Update
1 September 2023
TL;DR
Hello, Mr. President: Sam Jeong meets Vietnam's President for a discussion about the importance of science and education at the Presidential Palace.
Engaging at ICISE: The two Sams celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Rencontres du Vietnam and engages with leading scientists around the world at the Windows on the Universe Conference.
Hoi An Team Retreat: UWC Vietnam Campus Project’s core team meets, feasts, bonds, and collaborates.
Founders Initiative Buzz: Gaining traction and soaring high since its official launch!
Dear Friends,
As we approach the beginning of a new academic year, I can't help but miss the one-on-one university counseling meetings with students, sitting on my cherished tatami mats. These mats have been with me for six years, starting from their purchase in China (thank you, Taobao!), and they have traveled alongside me from China to Vietnam, witnessing the journeys of every student I have counseled.
From joyful advisory sessions filled with bubble tea and games, to the emotional moments of college decisions, from late-night editing sessions for last-minute supplemental essays, to casual afternoon coffee chats, my tatami mats have not only supported the weight of over 250 pairs of feet (I insisted on a shoe-less office), but they have also listened to countless stories of reflection and triumph from students hailing from all corners of the world. These stories have been the driving force behind the realization of the UWC Vietnam Campus Project.
Looking into the future, I envision my tatami mats finding a new home in my future office at UWC Vietnam's campus. There, they will continue to be a silent listener, providing a space for students' voices to be heard as they strive to make a positive impact in their communities.
Until then, onwards! Happy September, everyone.
Meeting with Vietnam’s President, Mr. Võ Văn Thưởng
On August 12, I had the privilege of meeting President Vo at the presidential palace in Hanoi. He was hosting scientists and delegates from the International Center for Interdisciplinary Science and Education (ICISE), a prestigious science center in Quy Nhon that has attracted numerous distinguished figures in the scientific community, including more than 20 Nobel laureates, Field medalists, and Dirac medalists in the past decade. Dr. Jean Tran Thanh Van, the Director of ICISE, graciously invited me to join the delegation to meet the president, as we aim to establish the UWC Vietnam campus near ICISE's facilities.
During our meeting at the palace, esteemed members of the delegation, including Gerard t'Hooft, recipient of the 1999 Nobel Prize in Physics, along with Vietnam's Minister of Science and Technology and President Vo himself, emphasized the vital role of science and education in the country's development. They emphasized the importance of attracting and harnessing the talents of exceptional individuals in order for Vietnam to position itself as a regional leader in science and education.
As Binh Dinh province envisions the creation of a science and education city focusing on vital 21st-century topics like artificial intelligence and climate change, UWC Vietnam aims to provide an education that revolves around cultivating a passion for learning, developing emotional intelligence, and embracing a mission rooted in peace and a sustainable future. It was a great honor to be in the presence of President Vo, and I aspire to one day extend an invitation to him for the opening ceremony of UWC Vietnam's future campus.
The Windows on the Universe Conference
From August 4 to 7, the Sams had the privilege of attending the Windows on the Universe Conference at ICISE in Quy Nhon, commemorating the 30th Anniversary of Rencontres du Vietnam. While possibly the only non-scientists amid a sea of physicists, the experience was incredibly enriching as we connected with these exceptional individuals and shared insights about our project. We are humbled and grateful for the warm welcome and support we received from ICISE and conference participants alike and look forward to continued connections that bridge the worlds of science and education for peace.
Team Retreat in Hoi An!
In August, the UWC Vietnam Campus Project core team gathered together in-person for the first time since the project’s inception in February. We flew to Hoi An, where Chris Day, a core team member, lives with his family. As a team that works remotely, it was a treat for us to be together in one place, sharing food, engaging in strategic planning that will shape the scope and focus of the project over the next year, and simply enjoying each other’s company. It likely won’t be for a while when we are together in the same place again, but I am so proud of this small but mighty team!
Founders' Initiative Gains Momentum!
We are thrilled to announce that our Founders' Initiative is off to an incredible start! We have embarked on a journey to find our first 100 visionary Founders who are ready to make a lasting impact. The initiative, which aims to secure commitments of a minimum of $100,000 from each individual, has already welcomed its first two dedicated Founders who share our passion for leveraging education as a catalyst for peace and sustainable future. Their steadfast commitment will unlock the door to significant and transformative projects, steering us closer to our vision for UWC Vietnam’s campus. From securing land and shaping conceptual designs to crafting enriching summer school programs, their support is the cornerstone that will empower us to realize our aspirations.
As we gather momentum, we hope to welcome more like-minded individuals into this extraordinary circle of changemakers in the coming months. We look forward to unveiling our first cohort of Founders in the near future!
Want to support the UWC Vietnam Campus Project?
Here are three easy ways:
Spread the word! Share our newsletter with friends, family, and colleagues who might be interested in our cause.
Connect with our project director, Sam Jeong. Schedule a call to learn more about our mission and how you can get involved.
Help us improve! Give us feedback on our pitch deck. Respond to or comment on this newsletter to receive a copy and share your thoughts.
Looking for more ways to support us? Consider making a donation, volunteering your time and skills, or hosting a fundraising event. Thank you all for your kind support and interest.
Yours,
UWC Vietnam Campus Project