Blueprint of Duke China Forum

The Duke China Forum (DCF) is a student-run academic organization, established for students, faculty, scholars and professionals at Duke and the Triangle Area to exchange their views and opinions on social, economic, political and cultural issues occurring in Greater China Region. DCF aims to promote interdisciplinary intellectual exchange among social sciences, humanities, business, law, public policy and science and technology, and develop some innovated ideas and aspirations through regular discussions. DCF expects to become a platform to discuss China issues, a window to know China, and a bridge to link Duke China Study researchers and sister organizations in the world.

DCF will fulfill its mission through five major activities. First, it will organize a monthly academic salon, which serves as a brain exchange activity for members of DCF. The discussion topics are very diverse as long as they are related to social, economic, political and cultural issues concerning the Great China Region. The forms of discussion are also very flexible. Members of DCF are also encouraged to present their research in this salon, and discussion on the related issues will be followed to broaden the communication.

In addition to the monthly salon, DCF will organize a monthly colloquium, where a distinguished speaker will be invited to give a talk. The colloquium will serve as a monthly thoughts igniter for DCF members and broader audience. The primary purpose of this activity is to learn, to educate, and to develop.

Complementing the above two on-site discussion activities is the on-line magazine, which functions as an intellectual reservoir which will cover news, reports, studies interviews, commentaries, and essays related to China studies. This on-line magazine is designed to provide plentiful information and ideas, facilitate cross-disciplinary dialogue, and stimulate the interests in China issues.

DCF will also organize various social activities and annual retreat (e.g., hiking, BBQ) to enhance mutual understandings among its members and bring together interested individuals (e.g. students, faculty, scholars and professionals) to discuss various social issues related to China.

In the long run, DCF also plans to sponsor researchers at Duke and the Triangle Area to teach and do field researches in China by providing a short-term fund, which will help strengthen the tie between DCF and China and increase DCF’s reputation as well.

DCF primarily consists of Duke graduate and professional students, visiting scholars and undergrads regardless of their ethnicities. We also welcome friends who are interested in China Studies from other universities and professional organizations.

DCF is still at the start-up stage and eagerly needs volunteers to fill in the positions in the Organizational Structure. Please drop us a note if you are interested in joining DCF. To maximize your potential leadership and contribution to DCF, you are welcome to occupy several positions simultaneously. We also appreciate any suggestions and supports. Email: dukechinaforum@gmail.com. Website: http://www.dukechinaforum.blogspot.com/. Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=10641158522.