In November 2023, alums Peter and Joyce Chan embarked on a journey to Asia, traveling to foster connections and establish alumni chapters for Brigham Young University–Hawaii. Their mission brought them to Taiwan, Hong Kong, and mainland China, as they contacted BYUH alumni, organized events, and communicated with friends and leaders in each place. Their ultimate goal was to help graduates in each area organize alumni chapters, enabling them to give back to the university and assist students and future graduates with jobs.
Taiwan
In Taiwan, several small gatherings were held in Taipei, with varying attendance in each session. Younger alumni highlighted the importance of starting a BYUH alumni chapter. Attendees showed interest in contributing to the success of a chapter while reminiscing on their experiences and deep connections to the university. The engagement of BYU graduates also lent support. Important contacts included Ken and Emily Wu, Simon and Ting Shum, and Wilford and Alice Wu, all willing BYUH graduates with substantial networks and influential roles within the Church and professional spheres in Taiwan.
The action plan outlined focused on nurturing the interest of those interested in organizing a BYUH alumni chapter, facilitating leadership applications, and fostering collaboration between the potential alumni chapter and BYUMS to ensure mutual support and coordination.
Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, scheduling a meeting at 7 pm on a Wednesday posed challenges due to work commitments, yet the Chans managed to gather nine BYUH graduates, three BYU graduates, and one BYUI graduate. Michael Hyde, a senior executive in the toy business, was invited to give a training, and attendees responded positively.
The presentation for the gathering received appreciation, and potential collaborations were discussed with the participants. Bill Shum, a BYUH graduate, delighted everyone by preparing exceptional "Polynesian potion" cuisine, highlighting the meeting.
Additionally, Peter and Joyce Chan had the honor of meeting President Benjamin M. Z. Tai from the area presidency, sharing an extensive trip report before enjoying dinner. President Tai, a long-standing acquaintance, appreciated the detailed update and offered valuable advice. A noteworthy contact for the couple was Jimmy Chan, a former BYUH schoolmate now engaged in parenting program development post-retirement, who emerged as a prospective influential alumni leader. The action items primarily focused on follow-up engagements with Jimmy Chan and other attendees to sustain connections and potential leadership prospects within the alumni network.
Mainland China
The Chans prepared a presentation for meetings in mainland China that focused on three main areas: the deep historical connections between BYU/BYUH and China, updates about the campuses, and future plans for alumni groups. The historical section was particularly well-received, reflecting the audience's appreciation for history. A booklet highlighting the historical relationship between Beijing Normal University and BYU/BYUH, along with a tribute to Helen Foster Snow, was positively received by officials and academics. As a result, there was a strong recommendation to create a photo exhibition and book that would educate officials and others about the universities' long-standing relationship with China.
Shanghai, China
In Shanghai, plans for a formal chapter were delayed and instead, an informal gathering was orchestrated at the Eggett residence, facilitated by Bryant Eggett, an IT executive and local branch president. Among the 30 attendees, only four were BYUH graduates, while the rest represented BYU and BYUI. Notably, most of the BYU alumni held esteemed positions as senior executives, academics, or US government officials.
The event aimed to foster connections between BYUH graduates and influential figures from other BYU campuses, emphasizing support and potential hiring prospects. The gathering featured the same three-part presentation they had done in previous areas, earning positive feedback. Attendees expressed newfound enthusiasm to contribute and serve after learning of BYU's connections to China. Key contacts emerged, all of whom expressed eagerness to support the BYUH alumni association.
Beijing, China
The Beijing meeting was deemed a success, with 30 attendees present. Support was extended by the BNU Vice President and college party secretary with remarks referencing the decades-long collaboration between institutions. The meeting's program, hosted by Kris Zhang and Yutong Wan, featured distinguished speakers from BNU, including faculty and leadership. Again, BYU/BYUH's historical connections with China and updates on campus affairs were central topics of conversation.
Notable individuals visited during the trip, like Ms. Liliang He, former Minister of Foreign Affairs Hua Huang's widow, and Ambassador Pine Gu, expressed support for the alumni initiatives, emphasizing the importance of bridging the two nations. Other crucial contacts, including academic figures, industry leaders, and influential personalities like Ms. Xiaolu Xue, the top female movie director in China, pledged support through internships, job opportunities, and collaborations between BNU and BYU/BYUH. The action plan involved appointing Beijing Chapter leaders, planning future events with BNU, organizing professional development conferences, and coordinating internships and job prospects for students and graduates. Additionally, opportunities at Diaoyutai MGM Hotel and Director Xue's studio were earmarked for BYUH students.
Xi’an, China
In Xi'an, the meetings primarily involved former Asia Executive Management program participants and a few BYU graduates, with no regular BYUH attendees. Despite the limited turnout, significant strides were made during the visit. A formal reception at the Shaanxi Provincial Foreign Affairs Office, hosted by Director Ms. Hongjuan Yao, an AEM program graduate, and other officials, showcased their admiration for BYUH.
Presenting the article on BYU/BYUH's 100-year history to Ms. Yao garnered immense praise, sparking discussions about potential exhibitions highlighting this history. As a result, the talk of a promising PR event for BYU/BYUH's future performing tours was discussed. The formal alumni gathering at Northwest University, attended by AEM graduates and two BYU in Provo alumni, emphasized their longstanding affinity for BYUH and their influential roles in the Shaanxi Provincial Foreign Affairs Office.
Additionally, visiting historic sites in Yan'an, notably Helen Foster Snow's former home and where William Taylor stayed during critical historical events, held immense value for the Chinese people and government, fostering crucial connections for the university and the Church.
Key contacts established included Mr. Hongjuan Yao, who supports future exchange programs, and Ms. Minna Gao, a Northwest University faculty member with a family-owned restaurant offering support for alumni activities. Leveraging connections within the AEM program's network, especially those working in government entities, presents opportunities for wider regional outreach.
Guangzhou, China
In Guangzhou, despite a brief stay, significant meetings unfolded. First, engaging with the religious research group of the Guangdong Province's Institute of International Studies was pivotal. Introducing BYU/BYUH and discussing the universities' activities left a positive impact, influencing potential attendance at BYU's Religion and Law Symposium and visits to BYUH and PCC.
Hosting an alumni meeting at ISA International School involved attendees from various BYU branches, prospective BYUH students, and positive responses to the presentation. Notably, James Lai, a generous BYU graduate, pledged substantial support and offered his residence for chapter activities. The subsequent day's engagement at Dongjiang Boya School, a K-12 institution, opened doors for BYUH education majors, allowing student internships and potential benefits in Chinese education and teaching placements.
Blessings From Both Sides
At the beginning of their mission across Asia, a personal trial emerged when Katie, Peter's niece, battled Hodgkin's Lymphoma in Hong Kong. Reflecting on this unforeseen challenge, Peter and Joyce shared, "We've been incredibly blessed by this opportunity to serve." It marked a pivotal moment as Peter's mom, diagnosed with leukemia, reunited with her children after 15 years. Despite the unexpected turn, it became a profound bonding experience for their family—a testimony to their faith and strength in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Amidst all the trials, the Chans testified that they were divinely directed throughout all of it. “All graduates expressed their great love and gratitude towards their respective universities. One enjoyable part of each gathering was having everyone introduce themselves, and they often talked about the fond memories they had of their university experience.” Peter Chan said, appreciating the outpouring of love from the alumni. He continues, “Beginning in Beijing, we also sang ‘Aloha ‘Oe’ at the end of each gathering. Many graduates commented on how touching and meaningful it was to sing it again after so many years.”