About Our Center Established in 1998 by Ron Anton,, The Beijing Center (TBC) is a not-for-profit center of higher education and research in mainland China committed to fostering mutual understanding between China and the rest of the world through cultural exchange, education, and research. In its architecturally unique Beijing facility on campus of University of International Business and Economics (UIBE), TBC hosts students and scholars to study the Chinese language, culture, and all things China in China. Since 2002, TBC has partnered locally with UIBE, a top-tier Chinese public research university. Throughout the years, over 2,000 students have spent a semester abroad at TBC and approximately 300--400 per year come to TBC with short-term faculty-led programs from all over the world. Since COVID-19, TBC reflects on the challenges and opportunities it has faced, as we work towards providing the most nurturing and effective educational environment. While the current environment demands certain changes, we have developed virtual and in-person programs to accommodate international students and local Chinese students to facilitate their academic and professional pursuits. TBC maintains a research library with over 27,000 volumes in English, including rare books and maps, and hosts conferences, guest lectures, and seminars. Considered to be the largest English language library about China on the mainland, TBC has hosted numerous scholars from China and worldwide to assist with their research. TBC serves as a hub for the international Jesuit higher education network in mainland China. What makes us unique is our place in a long and storied tradition, starting with Matteo Ricci, of Jesuit learning engaging with Chinese culture. This tradition teaches us that true cultural engagement starts with friendship. For more information about TBC, please visit us at https://thebeijingcenter.org or follow us on WeChat “ TheBeijingCenter1998”