SMITHFIELD, RI – On June 10, in Zhuhai, China, Bryant University Provost Rupendra Paliwal, on behalf of President Gittell, awarded Bryant Zhuhai’s fifth graduating class of 80 students with a Bryant Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree with a major in Accounting. Dr. Paliwal and Mr. Yang Chen, Vice President, Beijing Institute of Technology Zhuhai, addressed the graduates and distinguished guests. Dr. Hong Yang, Bryant University Vice President and Charles J. Smiley Chair Professor of Environmental Sciences, attended the ceremony and conducted bilateral meetings with the leadership from Bryant’s partner institution in Zhuhai.
Bryant Zhuhai was approved by both the Chinese Ministry of Education and the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) in 2015 and welcomed its first entering class of Chinese students in September 2015. It is the only U.S.-China joint four-year undergraduate business degree program in Guangdong Province, offering dual degree programs for Chinese students across the county. The academic program for Chinese students is taught in English by high quality faculty and mirrors Bryant's nationally recognized rigorous curriculum. There are currently approximately 384 students enrolled in the joint educational program between Beijing Institute of Technology Zhuhai (BITZH) and Bryant University.
“Bryant University has always believed in expanding the world of opportunities for our students, and this year, we recommitted to comprehensive internationalization of our academic programs and curriculum.” said Dr. Paliwal.
Addressing the graduates, Dr. Paliwal highlighted the importance of embracing the challenges and opportunities presented by the post-pandemic world. He urged the Class of 2023 to become bridges between nations, fostering a better understanding of each other, and working together for the peace and prosperity of the world. Collaboration on pressing issues such as climate change, economic slowdown, and global health requires bilateral cooperation and international coordination.
Mr. Yang Chen, in his address, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the collaboration and highlighted the significance of embracing truth and innovation while navigating through challenges. He encouraged the Class of 2023 to fearlessly venture into uncharted territories and to transcend the boundaries of knowledge. Mr. Chen extended his well-wishes for the graduates to become exceptional talents across various fields in responding to the demands of the times through tangible actions.
"It has been an honor for me to witness the growth of the graduates of the class of 2023 over the past four years," said Corey Larsen, Bryant Zhuhai Academic Dean. "I am incredibly proud of this class and the tremendous resilience and determination they have shown in overcoming significant obstacles throughout their time at Bryant Zhuhai, including the unprecedented challenges posed by the worldwide pandemic. As they step into the world, I have full confidence that they are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and tenacity to embark on successful and fruitful careers, making a lasting impact wherever their paths may lead.”
“I am delighted to be back to Zhuhai after nearly four years of absence,” said Dr. Hong Yang, “I am thrilled to celebrate the occasion in person with families, faculty, staff, and students who worked together to overcome the challenges during the past four years. As an international education, there is nothing more gratifying than to see the success of our students.”
“With an 80% graduation placement rate, Bryant’s reputation for strong return on investment also holds true in China,” said Bryant University President Ross Gittell, Ph.D. “Bryant’s high-demand majors and exemplary education ensure that program graduates have extraordinary placement in the job market.”
The graduation ceremony showcased the exceptional achievements of the graduating students, highlighting their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. This year, a total of 59 Bryant Zhuhai students have received offers from world-renowned universities for graduate studies. Among them, 81% of the students have been admitted to the world's top 100 universities, such as Johns Hopkins University, University College London, Australian National University, and the University of Hong Kong.
The success of Bryant Zhuhai’s Class of 2023's is a testament to Bryant's commitment to international education in providing a transformative and globally focused educational experience. By offering a rigorous curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, and a supportive learning environment, Bryant Zhuhai has prepared its graduates to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
About Bryant University
Bryant University in Smithfield, R.I. is a leading private university offering an innovative and uniquely integrated business and liberal arts education. Founded in 1863, Bryant University has approximately 3,500 graduate and undergraduate students from 38 states and 37 countries. Bryant University is recognized as a leader in international education and regularly receives top rankings from U.S. News and World Report, Bloomberg Businessweek, Forbes, and Barron's.
Zhuhai and Providence, Rhode Island sister cities
On December 5, 2018, Providence officially became a sister city to Zhuhai. The two cities, working in partnership with Bryant University, are dedicated to exploring cultural and economic opportunities for cooperation.
