Concordia Nebraska Builds International Connections through Outreach in Hong Kong and Shenzhen

Concordia University, Nebraska recently strengthened its international partnerships through a week of outreach and engagement in Hong Kong and Shenzhen, China, connecting with students, educators and school leaders while sharing educational opportunities available through the university. 

Representing Concordia Nebraska were Dr. Vicki Anderson, professor of education and program director for ESL, TESOL and modern language education; Marian Hogan, assistant director of transfer and international admissions; and Abbey Kudrna, a junior secondary education major from Omaha, Nebraska. At the invitation of the Lutheran Church—Hong  Kong Synod, the team presented to more than 1,400 students, families and community members during a series of assemblies, open house events and informational sessions. 

Students in grades 7-12 attended presentations focused on the undergraduate experience at Concordia during a student assembly and open house event in Shenzhen, as well as at Hong Kong Concordia International High School. One session was livestreamed to students at Hong Kong Concordia North Pointe High School. 

Students asked enthusiastic questions about academics, campus life and opportunities at Concordia. Kudrna, representing the student perspective, helped answer questions about student life and offered firsthand insight into the Concordia experience. 

The visit also included interactive college readiness workshops for students in grades 11-12. More than 40 students voluntarily attended the lunchtime sessions, which focused on topics such as resume writing, personal statements and interview preparation. 

The outreach extended beyond student recruitment. The Concordia Nebraska representatives also met with teachers from schools in Shenzhen and Hong Kong who expressed interest in the university’s graduate programs and professional development opportunities. 

Anderson said partner schools view the college readiness workshops and pathway to Concordia as valuable parts of the relationship. 

“It elevates the status of the Shenzhen school in the eyes of parents of both current and prospective students,” she said, “and it provides Chinese students with a small, well-supported and safe university environment to steer students towards.” 

The Lutheran Church—Hong Kong Synod has also expressed its continued support for the partnership and future collaboration opportunities.  

Concordia University, Nebraska’s collaboration with schools in Hong Kong and Shenzhen reflects the university’s commitment to expanding global pathways for students while equipping educators through meaningful partnerships. 

Interested in studying at Concordia University, Nebraska or exploring graduate and professional development opportunities? Learn more about our undergraduate programs, graduate degrees and the supportive community that helps students thrive at cune.edu.