Asian Forum 2026 examines East Asian perspectives on aging, honors the late Dr. Timothy Light
KALAMAZOO, Mich. — WMU Asian Initiatives will host a multidisciplinary conference May 2–3 at Western Michigan University, bringing scholars from Asia and the West to explore how aging is understood across East Asian societies. All are invited.
Over thirty scholars from 8 different countries and regions will present their research at this year's Asian Forum, says Dr. Ying Zeng, senior director of Asian Initiatives, a unit of the Haenicke Institute for Global Education.
This year’s theme, "East Asian Perspectives on Aging and the Seasons of Life," addresses one of the most pressing global challenges of our time: aging societies, says Zeng.
East Asia offers rich philosophical, cultural, and social frameworks for understanding aging, intergenerational responsibility and life transitions, she explains.
The theme also reflects the interests of the late Dr. Timothy Light, namesake of the Timothy Light Center for Chinese Studies, adds Zeng.
Light, who passed away in December 2025, was a distinguished sinologist and philanthropist who served as provost of Western Michigan University from 1993 to 2000.
A Kalamazoo native, he was a key figure in Asian studies at WMU, serving as a professor emeritus of comparative religion. "The theme this year not only advances critical cross-cultural dialogue but also honors Dr. Light's legacy,” says Zeng.
The first Asian Forum was held in 2015 as a small campus gathering, she says. Over the past decade, and with Dr. Light's support, it grew into an international symposium on Asian Studies.
"It brings together scholars, students and community partners across borders, fosters international research collaboration and highlights WMU as a hub for globally engaged scholarship," says Zeng.
"The Forum also provides students with direct exposure to international perspectives without leaving campus, helping cultivate intercultural competence and global citizenship, core outcomes of globalization."
Get Involved in Asian Forum 2026
Those interested in attending are encouraged to register in advance using this registration link.
May 2, Saturday Events
- 10:00 a.m. to Noon - Panel I: "Aging and Governance: Policy, Community and Care"
- 1 to 3 p.m. - Panel II: Aging and Meaning: Cultural and Religious Narratives
- 3:20 to 4:35 p.m. - Panel III: Aging and Representation: From Film to Digital Media
Lunch will be provided for registered participants.
May 3, Sunday Events
- 9 to 10:30 a.m. - Invited Panel: Aging in Contemporary East Asia
- 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. - Roundtable: Mediating Plurality of Aging
About the Haenicke Institute for Global Education
The Diether H. Haenicke Institute for Global Education, established in 1998, fosters an environment that supports the global engagement of the Western community. Its offices assist more than 1,000 international students and alumni at home and abroad with admissions, immigration, student success and post-graduation job training.
The institute also facilitates short- and long-term study abroad programs for students, faculty and staff. It hosts a variety of global learning activities, such as designing and promoting scholarship and academic opportunities on campus; providing K-12 outreach; hosting lectures, panels and events; and showcasing arts, entertainment and culture from around the world. Learn more about the Haenicke Institute for Global Education.
For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.