Milton Academy Hong Kong Chair in Asian Studies Michael Lou with Boston College Professor Robert S. Ross, Ph.D.
One of the most exciting things about a Milton education is the opportunity to learn not only from our fantastic faculty, but also from visiting experts. On February 22, Dr. Robert S. Ross, the 2024 Hong Kong Distinguished Speaker, spoke to Class I and II students about China’s emergence as a global power and the response from the United States. Dr. Ross, a scholar, author, and professor of political science at Boston College and associate of the John Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies at Harvard, is one of the nation’s foremost experts in Chinese security and defense policy, East Asian security, and U.S.–China relations. Following the talk, students engaged in a lively and thought-provoking Q&A with Dr. Ross.
Now, more than ever, it is critical for students to be curious and build the skills necessary to understand the cultural, economic, and political realities around our world. The Hong Kong Speaker series allows our students to begin building this understanding as part of their Milton Academy experience.
Milton’s strong connection with Asia—through our students, families, and alumni—has enriched our community for decades. The Hong Kong Distinguished Speaker Series was made possible mainly through the generosity of former Trustee Helen Lin, a member of the Class of 1981, but also from more than 100 Milton graduates living in Hong Kong. Its mission is to raise our awareness of Asian art and history as well as many issues of concern to Asian communities both here and abroad.
Since 1998, the Hong Kong Distinguished Speaker Series has brought artists, diplomats, political leaders, professors, advocates, and historians to campus, including ambassador David Shinn, artist Kristina Wong, professor Paul Watanable, and filmmaker (and Milton alumnus!) Tze Chun. These guests have enlightened our community about topics ranging from immigration to Asian identity, to international relations, to the vibrant diversity and contributions of Asian people around the globe.
