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The University of Dayton has formed and maintained partnerships with institutions worldwide, offering students, faculty, and staff opportunities for learning and growth. These collaborations evolve over time no differently than the way a seed is planted and the branches of a tree grow in unexpected forms and directions. 

UD’s partnership with Shanghai Normal University (SHNU) began in a similar way. Over 20 years ago a UD member traveled to China to meet with representatives from different institutions and returned with an interest from SHNU to formalize a collaboration which has since bloomed into a successful partnership over time.

Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, the UD-SHNU partnership has evolved into a successful 3+1 dual-degree program in the School of Engineering. Through this program, students complete three years at SHNU and one year at UD, earning baccalaureate degrees from both universities. Over the past two decades, more than 200 SHNU students have studied at UD through the dual-degree program. Notably, more than half of this population remain at UD to pursue graduate studies.

Initially, SHNU students were naturally reserved, says Scott Segalewitz, a School of Engineering faculty member and key driver of the partnership. Over time, “we saw students becoming more engaged once they arrived.” He credits UD faculty who traveled to SHNU to set expectations and build relationships before the students’ arrival. Today, SHNU students are active members of our campus community. They contribute new and unique perspectives in the classroom and fully engage in the Global Learning Living Community (GLLC), where SHNU students reside. 

The GLLC is a residential community with more than 20 countries represented. Here, students have many opportunities to broaden their perspectives through formal and informal exchanges. Shang Lingxiu, an electrical engineering student who lives there this year shares, “I am [learning] a new culture, not just with teaching and studying, but also with life… and I am learning to live independently.”

Faculty also benefit from this exchange. Segalewitz, who has traveled to SHNU since 2008, values the deep friendships he’s formed and the global perspective it has given him. He is set to return to SHNU for the 14th time this month, further strengthening the partnership.

As we celebrate 20 years of this collaboration, SHNU is also marking its 70th anniversary. Their dedication has been key to the success of this partnership. We congratulate them on 70 years of excellence and look forward to many more years of working together!