Student Speakers
Krishna Thiagarajan
Ilias Mouhboub
Menglu Jiang
Faculty Speakers
Cong Li: Gamifying Language Learning
Cong Li is an innovative educator and researcher at Duke Kunshan University, specializing in language acquisition and educational technologies. With a passion for transforming the way students engage with learning, Cong has pioneered the use of gamification in language education. His work focuses on integrating game mechanics—such as points, challenges, and rewards—into language learning to boost motivation and enhance retention. By merging fun with function, Cong aims to reshape traditional language teaching methods, making the process more dynamic and engaging for learners of all levels.
Lindsay Rathnam: The Evolution of Global Citizenship
Lindsay Mahon Rathnam is an Assistant Professor of Political Theory at Duke Kunshan University (DKU) and Duke University. Her academic background is in ancient political thought, political theory, and comparative political theory. She holds a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Toronto, where she also earned a master’s degree. Prior to joining DKU in 2020, Rathnam held a postdoctoral research position at Emory University.
Her research focuses on themes like cross-cultural judgment, the psychology of judgment, and the relevance of ancient political ideas in contemporary societies. Rathnam is currently working on a book exploring cultural collisions and emotional dynamics in Herodotus’ works, and she has published extensively on topics such as free speech in ancient Greece and the intersection of democracy and meritocracy.
External Speakers
Jill Tang: Unleashing Your Potential for Lasting Impact
Jill Tang is a dynamic entrepreneur, community builder, and advocate for women in technology. She is the co-founder of She Rewires, a platform dedicated to empowering women to thrive in the tech industry. With a background in community-building and a passion for creating sustainable change, Jill has been recognized as one of the top influencers in her field. Her work has not only connected countless women to opportunities but also encouraged them to leverage their individuality and strengths to become catalysts for positive change in their personal and professional lives.
Crystal Kwok: On Not Wearing the Outfit: Challenging Social Scripts
Crystal Kwok is a filmmaker, actress, and host, known for her bold and unapologetic stance on challenging societal norms. Having started her career in front of the camera in Hong Kong cinema, Crystal’s experiences in both entertainment and journalism have fueled her passion for pushing against restrictive societal expectations, especially those related to gender and identity. She now uses her platform to amplify diverse voices and explore the complexities of identity and race, as showcased in her documentary work, including Blurring the Color Line.
Matej Cačik: Breaking Boundaries: Empowering Rural Voices in a Globalized World
Matej Čačík is a passionate advocate for bridging the urban-rural divide in Slovakia through innovative, community-centered initiatives. Currently studying at Central European University in Vienna, he has been involved in various non-profit projects aimed at empowering underserved communities and creating opportunities for growth in rural areas. Čačík’s work focuses on fostering collaboration between diverse social groups and enhancing access to essential resources. With a NATO grant supporting his efforts, he has also developed strong connections with key stakeholders, including government officials like the Prime Minister of Slovakia. His projects have garnered attention for their forward-thinking approach to addressing inequality and fostering a more inclusive society.