WMU Asian Initiatives, a unit of the Haenicke Institute for Global Education, oversees and supports University community outreach efforts, collaborated international academic programs, and scholarly conferences.
Community outreach offerings and classes, like TaiChi, bring Chinese and Japanese language and culture programs into area schools, libraries, and other community centers. Annually, WMU Asian Initiatives hosts a Chinese Speech contest and other major cultural events such as the Spring Gala and a High School Summer Camp in China.
Featured Events of WMU Asian Initiatives
Asian Forum
The Asian Forum at WMU brings together academics, artists, scholars and international education professionals from Asia and the West to engage in dialogue and explore issues related to Asia and the global community through a multidisciplinary conference.
Spring Gala
Supported by community groups, WMU faculty, staff and students, Spring Gala serves as a platform to honor and showcase Asia’s rich cultural traditions. Through mesmerizing dance routines, musical performances and theatrical presentations, the joyous occasion fosters cross-cultural appreciation and understanding.
Additional Community Events of WMU Asian Initiatives
We host various community events, including Chinese and Japanese cultural activities. Each event offers a unique opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in Asian culture, learn new skills, and connect with the community.
2026 Events
- January 2026, Portage District Library, Tai Chi and Meditation
- February 2026, Kalamazoo Public Library, Lunar New Year Celebration
- February 2026, Portage District Library, Family Lunar New Year Celebration
- March 2026, Portage District Library, Chinese Calligraphy and Self Reflection
Additional Academic Events of WMU Asian Initiatives
Light Center Guest Lecture Series
The Light Center brings scholars from around the world to speak on Chinese history, culture, art and contemporary society.
Light Center Brown Bag Talks
Light Center Research Grant recipients present on their projects at our ongoing Light Center Brown Bag Talk series.
Soga Japan Center Lecture Events
The Soga Japan Center offers lecture events throughout the fall and spring semesters that promote the knowledge of Japan.
Additional Cultural Events of WMU Asian Initiatives
Chinese Speech Contest
The annual Chinese Speech Contest provides a stage for outstanding middle school and high school Chinese language students to demonstrate their achievements in learning Chinese and communicate with each other.
Japanese Events
Soga Japan Center proudly organizes a variety of cultural events, offering students, parents, and the local community meaningful opportunities to explore and deepen their understanding of Japanese culture.
About the Haenicke Institute for Global Education
Your journey at Western Michigan University is a global one. Through transformative events, immersive classes and Experience-Driven Learning, the Haenicke Institute for Global Education connects Kalamazoo to the world—and the world to Kalamazoo. We assist over 1,000 international students and alumni at home and abroad with admissions, immigration support, student success and post-graduation job training. We host 80+ study abroad programs and bring students, faculty and staff to 30 countries, on average, each year. From fostering academic opportunities to showcasing cultural events and providing K-12 outreach, the Haenicke Institute promotes learning that transcends borders and takes you wherever you want to go.
International Student and Scholar Services
International Student and Scholar Services is responsible for international student recruitment, admissions and immigration support.
Study Abroad
WMU Study Abroad supports more than 80 programs around the world, sending students, faculty and staff to 30 countries, on average, each year.
Global Engagement Program
The Global Engagement Program provides opportunities for all students at Western Michigan University to become globally engaged.
English Language Learning
The Center for English Language and Culture for International Students offers short- and long-term intensive English language study.
Asian Initiatives
WMU Asian Initiatives enhances scholarship and knowledge of East Asia on campus and throughout southwest Michigan.
Faculty Enrichment
The Haenicke Institute supports partnerships with more than 100 international institutions, offering options to faculty who are interested in collaboration and exchange.