President Taylor Randall visited the University of Utah Asia Campus in Incheon, South Korea to identify further development opportunities in the region. He also heard from students about their experience at the international campus. The Nov. 9, visit was Randall’s first to the campus as U president.
President Taylor Randall gifts a signed University of Utah “Utes” football helmet to Yoo Jeong-bok, Mayor of Incheon Metropolitan City.
Randall noted his desire to see the U Asia Campus remain a global hub while the institution continues its global outreach as part of the push toward becoming an even more “remarkable research institution with unsurpassed societal impact.”
At a lunch event, Randall applauded students for taking a path less traveled and illuminated the unique benefits of gaining global experience while in college.
“By being here, you will be able to have a massive leg up. You will see parts of the world that others will not. Your understanding and respect for differing cultures will grow as you visit new countries, and you will be able to identify greater possibilities ” he said.
Randall also encouraged students from the Salt Lake City Campus who have spent time at the U Asia Campus to share their experiences with their friends and fellow students. He outlined his vision of creating more exchanges between the two campuses.
“I am excited for the impact you will have on both communities, here in Incheon, Korea, and in Salt Lake City, Utah, and I can’t wait to see the ways you will help make both better,” Randall added.
Noting that the grand challenges of modern society are all global in nature, Randall said the most important thing a student can glean is the belief that they can solve big problems. “Ultimately, I hope you leave this place with extraordinary confidence,” he said.
Also in attendance were Dr. Mike Good, CEO of the University of Utah Health and Senior Vice President of Health Sciences; and Jason Perry, Vice President for Government Relations and the Director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics.
After the group toured the U Asia Campus and addressed student questions, they met with the mayor of Incheon, the commissioner of the Incheon Free Economic Zone, and business leaders to identify pathways for U Asia Campus to continue its growth.