On February 20, 2026, the Center for Chinese Studies (CCS) at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa hosted its 2026 Scholarship Awards & Chinese New Year Luncheon in the Makana Room at the East-West Center. The event brought together UH administrators, faculty, students, community leaders, donors, and long-time supporters to celebrate the Year of the Horse and recognize outstanding student achievement.
The program opened with remarks from CCS Director Professor Ming-Bao Yue, who acknowledged the special guests, campus leadership, community partners, and donors for their continuing support of CCS’ work, and thanked the CCS Scholarship Committee, CCS faculty and CCS Staff for their dedication and diligence. Dean Peter Arnade of the College of Arts, Languages & Letters and Dean Denise Konan of the College of Social Sciences then delivered welcome remarks. Both deans expressed heartfelt appreciation for the community support of CCS and reaffirmed their colleges’ commitment to supporting interdisciplinary scholarship through CCS.
A highlight of the luncheon was the presentation of the 2026 CCS Scholarships, including Eu Tong Sen Fellowship, Ah Kin (buck) Yee Fellowship, Ning Prize, and Ning Fund. Award recipients were recognized for their academic excellence, dedication to Chinese Studies, and commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding. The certificates were presented by former CCS Directors, Dr. Roger Ames, Dr. David Yang, and generous endowment supporter & former CCS Associate Director Cyndy Ning, symbolizing continuity and shared stewardship across generations.
The celebration also featured a vibrant cultural program presented by UH faculty and students. Qi Zhang, a PhD student in Asian Theater, performed an excerpt from the Beijing Opera classic The Drunken Concubine (贵妃醉酒), showcasing the elegance and expressive depth of Jingju. Please see the link to performance here.
Savannah Mikus, a PhD student in History, performed the beloved Chinese song The Moon Represents My Heart (月亮代表我的心). Please see the link to their performance here.
The program concluded with a Taiji 76 Forms group performance led by Associate Professor Dongping Zheng with 10 UH students and staff, highlighting balance, harmony, and mindful movement. Please see the video to the performance here.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Hawaiʻi Lion Dance Association performed a lively lion dance to usher in good fortune and prosperity for the new year. Guests also enjoyed Chinese tea tasting, calligraphy demonstrations, and a luncheon featuring Chinese cuisine.
A special feature of this year’s event was the “Blessing Exchange Corner,” where guests brought meaningful cultural objects and written New Year blessings to share. Participants selected gifts and blessings to take home and were invited to make voluntary donations in support of CCS programs. The exchange symbolized the spirit of generosity, cultural continuity, and community connection that defines CCS.
The 2026 Scholarship Awards & Chinese New Year Luncheon reflected the Center’s mission to promote excellence in Chinese studies while building bridges across cultures and generations. As CCS moves forward into the Year of the Horse, the celebration reaffirmed its commitment to scholarship, community engagement, and cultural exchange.
Please click HERE to view the event highlight video.
