International
International on Wazzu: a running collection of 2 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on international in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. Washington State University (WSU) is a leading public land-grant research university in Pullman, WA, known for its strong programs in agriculture, environmental science,… New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around international, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything Wazzu is covering right now.
8 UW faculty and staff named Fulbright Scholars; will conduct research around the world
## Eight UW Scholars Embark on Global Research Journeys as 2026-2027 Fulbright Scholars The University of Washington is proud to announce that eight faculty and staff members have been awarded prestigious Fulbright Scholarships for the 2026-2027 academic year. These scholars, representing a diverse range of disciplines – including the sciences, engineering, business, environmental sciences, electrical and computer engineering, and computer science – will pursue impactful research and build critical international connections across the globe. Fulbright Scholars are recognized for their commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering cross-cultural understanding. The program equips recipients with valuable international insights, strengthens professional networks, and ultimately empowers them to share their experiences and expertise with students and colleagues upon their return. This year's cohort exemplifies that dedication, poised to contribute significantly to their fields while broadening global perspectives. The Fulbright program’s rigorous selection process prioritizes candidates demonstrating exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to intercultural dialogue. Their work promises to address critical challenges and contribute to a more interconnected world. This news follows recent coverage examining the complexities of international research and collaboration, as highlighted in our article, "Inside the ‘Culture of Fear’ at One American-Chinese University," which explores the challenges facing scholars in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape. The UW’s Fulbright Scholars embody a spirit of resilience and a dedication to building bridges through research and education.
Inside the ‘Culture of Fear’ at One American-Chinese University
## Navigating Uncertainty: Examining the Reported "Culture of Fear" at Wenzhou-Kean University Recent reports paint a concerning picture at Wenzhou-Kean University, a unique institution blending American and Chinese higher education models. A detailed investigation by Emma Whitford reveals accusations from faculty alleging a restrictive and potentially damaging environment. These claims center around several key issues, ranking roughly in severity as follows: 1) Obfuscatory employment agreements, 2) Wrongful termination, 3) Discrimination and retaliation, and 4) a perceived lack of shared governance within the university. Essentially, faculty allege a climate where expressing concerns or challenging administration decisions can lead to negative repercussions. University officials, however, strongly dispute these allegations, asserting a commitment to fair labor practices and academic freedom. This situation highlights a growing tension within American higher education – the complexities of international partnerships and the potential for cultural clashes in governance models. The reported issues at Wenzhou-Kean raise important questions about transparency, faculty protections, and the balance between institutional autonomy and accountability. Readers interested in the broader landscape of higher education challenges might also find our recent piece on pressures facing Clinton College particularly relevant. The situation remains fluid, and we'll continue to follow developments and provide updates as they emerge, prioritizing clear, fact-based reporting.