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Meiling Wu
Department Chair at Modern Languages and Literature
Professional Background
Dr. Meiling Wu is a distinguished academic and leader in the field of language and literature, currently serving as the Principal Investigator and Director of Program SSOS. This program is backed by a five-year, $1.85 million grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Education under the Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANAPISI) initiative. She previously served as the Principal Investigator and Project Director for the Pashto and Dari Programs as part of the CSU Strategic Language Institute, a significant project sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense. Dr. Wu is a seasoned educator who has dedicated her career to exploring East Asian languages, cultures, cinema, and literature through various pedagogical and administrative roles at several reputable institutions.
As the current Professor and Chair of the Department of Modern Languages and Literature at California State University, East Bay, Dr. Wu has played an integral role in shaping the academic experiences of countless students. Her leadership and contributions extend beyond departmental responsibilities, as she has been actively involved in many faculty governance committees. Notably, she chaired the Committee on Budget and Resource Allocation between 2011 and 2013 and served on the CSU Academic Council on International Programs. Dr. Wu's extensive background in higher education, coupled with her leadership in significant grant-funded programs, underscores her commitment to advancing language education.
In addition to her administrative accomplishments, Dr. Wu has exhibited her talents beyond academia. She has been featured on TLC's "Who Do You Think You Are," where her multicultural heritage was highlighted, showcasing her as a prominent voice in discussions about identity and culture.
Education and Achievements
Dr. Wu's academic journey began with her undergraduate studies in English Language and Literature at Providence College, followed by her pursuit of a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Comparative Literature at the prestigious State University of New York at Binghamton. Throughout her education, she demonstrated a strong commitment to language acquisition and cultural studies, fulfilling requirements in Latin, Chinese, Japanese, and French. This rigorous academic background laid the foundation for her illustrious career in scholarship and education.
Her passion for literature led her to receive several accolades, including the First Prize in a short story contest held by Central Daily News in 1995, showcasing her prowess not just as a scholar, but as a storyteller. Dr. Wu’s diverse linguistic abilities are rooted in her upbringing, where she grew up multilingual, being fluent in Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, and several local Min/Wu dialects.
Contributions to Academia
Dr. Wu's professional engagements have spanned various prestigious institutions. Before her current role at California State University, East Bay (CSUEB), she served as a Full Professor at CSUEB, where she significantly influenced both faculty and student experiences. She began her academic career in various capacities, including as an Assistant Professor at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, and by teaching as a Lecturer at Binghamton University. Throughout her career, Dr. Wu has demonstrated her capacity to impact students positively and foster an environment of learning and engagement in the study of languages and literature.
Particularly notable was her role as co-chair of the Asian/Pacific Islander Faculty and Staff Association from 2006 to 2010, where she supported initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion within higher education. Her commitment to student success is evident in her involvement in the Selection Committee for California's Pre-Doctoral Program and her work with the Office of Chancellor, where she chaired the Mandarin Lower Division Transfer Programs. Dr. Wu’s contributions to these programs have not only enhanced student access to education but have also provided pathways for success in the increasingly global landscape of higher education.
Notable Grants and Funding Initiatives
Dr. Wu's stewardship has been critical in securing significant grant funding for language programs that champion diversity in education. Her leadership in the AANAPISI Program resulted in successful funding cycles, most notably her involvement with the $1.75 million grant for the 2016-2021 period. These grants play a crucial role in developing curricula and resources that better serve Asian American, Native American, and Pacific Islander students, ensuring they have equitable opportunities for academic success amidst a multicultural landscape.
On several occasions, Dr. Wu has also declined grant awards to maintain her program's integrity and focus on optimal outcomes for her students and faculty. Her foresight illustrates a mature understanding of funding that aligns with educational goals rather than sheer monetary gain. This principled approach is indicative of her dedication to her core values as an educator and leader.
Personal Background
Dr. Wu's rich and diverse background adds depth to her work in academia. Born into a family actively engaged in an international lumber business with operations across Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Taiwan, China, and Japan, her exposure to various cultures from a young age has shaped her worldview and professional pursuits. Her frequent visits to Southeast and Northeast Asia have equipped her with valuable insights and experiences that inform her teaching and administrative strategies.
Dr. Wu epitomizes the essence of an advocate for multicultural understanding and education. Her commitment to fostering diverse educational environments has left an indelible mark on her students and colleagues. With a unique blend of experience, scholarly accomplishments, and respectful engagement in community dialogues, Dr. Wu remains instrumental in the ongoing evolution of language and literature education in the United States. Her legacy not only enriches her department but also contributes to a broader conversation on the importance of multilingualism and cross-cultural dialogue in an increasingly interconnected world.