[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 51 (Tuesday, April 20, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E544]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      IN HONOR OF SIAS INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY, ZHENGZHOU, CHINA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. XAVIER BECERRA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 20, 2004

  Mr. BECERRA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and pay tribute 
to the Sias International University of Zhengzhou, China, on the 
occasion of its fifth anniversary. Founded in 1998 by Dr. Shawn Chen, 
the Sias International University has been recognized as the first 
American-owned university in China.
  Sias International University has a mission to educate professionals 
and help them gain an in-depth understanding of international business 
theory and practice. Its unique blend of Western and Eastern culture 
creates a truly international learning environment to better prepare 
its students for today's global market. This dual-culture educational 
environment also fosters greater understanding between the United 
States and China.
  One of the fastest growing universities in China, Sias International 
University has a student population now exceeding 7,000 and offers over 
30 different majors, including business, engineering, art, sciences, 
languages, and liberal studies. Its unique partnership with Fort Hays 
State University in Kansas enables Sias International University to 
offer dual degree programs in many majors. Through Fort Hays State 
University's virtual campus and online courses Chinese students learn 
first hand about American educational values.
  Dr. Chen's vision of international cooperation through academia has 
established Sias International University as a model for future 
education in China. As we speak, the partnership between Sias 
International University and Fort Hays State University is educating 
future leaders in government and industry from both the United States 
and China, all the while strengthening ties between our two nations.
  The establishment of an institution like Sias International 
University could not be timelier. At a time when countries are 
threatened by terrorism and the national reflex worldwide is to close 
borders, we must remember that our economies, our people, and thus our 
nations are intertwined in this world. We must continue to resist 
reactions of fear and isolation and work instead towards forging 
relations with our international neighbors.
  Mr. Speaker, as students, faculty, board members, university leaders, 
and the community gather to celebrate the accomplishments of Sias 
International University on the occasion of its fifth anniversary, I 
ask my colleagues to join me in extending congratulations and best 
wishes for continued growth and prosperity to this thriving 
institution.

                          ____________________