It is with great honor and humility that I assume the role of President of IAUP for the 2024-2027 term. As we stand at the crossroads of a rapidly evolving global landscape, I am reminded of the profound responsibility we bear as leaders in higher education. These are indeed unprecedented times—a period marked by both extraordinary challenges and transformative opportunities. It is a moment that calls for us to rise above adversity, to innovate with purpose, and to lead with empathy and vision.

As we embark on this new triennium, I am guided by four pillars that will define our collective efforts: Resilience, Innovation, Collaboration, and Global Citizenship. These pillars encapsulate the essence of what we must prioritize as we reimagine the future of higher education.

  1. Resilience: We must strengthen the capacity of our institutions to adapt to change, recover from disruptions, and remain steadfast in our commitment to excellence.
  2. Innovation: We will embrace cutting-edge technologies, pedagogical advancements, and creative solutions to address the evolving needs of our students and societies. In particular, the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence in higher education cannot be overstated.
  3. Collaboration: We will deepen our partnerships with higher education organizations, governments, and industry leaders to foster meaningful dialogue and shared progress.
  4. Global Citizenship: We will champion the role of higher education in nurturing ethical, inclusive, and globally minded leaders who can address the complex challenges of our interconnected world.

IAUP, as a global network, is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation. Together, we will amplify our impact by strengthening regional leadership, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and creating platforms for knowledge exchange. We will reaffirm our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that every voice is heard and every opportunity is accessible.

I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and for the support of the IAUP Executive Committee, our members, and our global network of colleagues. Let us move forward with a shared sense of purpose, united in our mission to empower higher education institutions to serve their students and communities with greater relevance, responsiveness, and innovation.

Together, we will not only navigate the challenges of today but also shape a brighter, more inclusive future for generations to come.

Warm regards,

Dr. Shawn Chen
President, IAUP
Chairman, Sias University