On the evening of February 11, 2012, the Confucius Institute at NC State hosted a formal Chinese New Year Reception at the Mahler Fine Art Gallery in Downtown Raleigh. Many local businesses and education organizations were invited to join members of the community to welcome the year of the Dragon and collaborate to form sustainable US-China partnerships. Thomas Ross, the President of the 17-campus University of North Carolina, along with UNC Board of Governor Atul Bhula and Superintendent of Orange County Schools Patrick Rhodes, were a few of the VIPs who attended the reception. NC State’s Vice Chancellor Dr. Warwick Arden, Vice Provost of International Affairs Dr. Li Bailian, and the Deputy Director of Confucius Institute Ms. Anna Lamm gave welcoming remarks as they each shared why it is important for the community to come together and celebrate this special occasion. During the reception, professional Guzheng and Pipa musicians played traditional Chinese folk music, creating a soothing atmosphere as guests exchange holiday greetings and networked. A professional Chinese Calligrapher was also present during the reception to show off Chinese Calligraphy for enthusiasts to view and take home. Around 200 guests attended the reception, many guests sampled Chinese dimsum for the first time and was very pleased with the taste and look of the hors d'oeuvres.

Confucius Institute staffs pose with Chinese Culture Ambassadors to document a successful event

Professional Guzheng and Pipa players demonstrated the elegance of Chinese music and culture

Our guests networked while sampling a variety of Chinese dimsums and desserts

Chinese Culture Ambassadors impressed by beautiful Chinese calligraphy