By Gerard Flanagan
Lead writer and communications specialist
Office of Marketing and Communications
Campbellsville University President Dr. Joseph Hopkins and Dr. Peter Thomas, CU’s assistant vice president for global services, have returned from visits to three of the top universities in South Korea.
Hopkins and Thomas visited Namseoul University in Cheonan and Myongji University and Soongsil University, both located in Seoul.
According to Thomas, the purpose of the trip was to forge new international partnerships and explore opportunities for academic collaboration with these universities.
Both Hopkins and Thomas met with each university’s administrators, international office directors, and academic department heads to discuss potential initiatives and opportunities for collaborative education, exchange, research cooperation, and student mobility.
“We went in with hopes of identifying a good partner university for Campbellsville University, and we returned with three wonderful new relationships,” Hopkins shared. “The Korean universities and schools could not have been more hospitable, and it was a joy to share in our common Christian mission.”
Hopkins added, “We are grateful for the many Korean students who have been part of the Campbellsville community over the decades, and it would seem that those opportunities will continue into the future through these deepening relationships.”
Thomas noted the primary objectives for his and Hopkins’ visit to these institutions.
“The primary objectives were to identify new pathways for student exchange and dual-degree programs, discuss faculty collaboration opportunities, and enhance mutual understanding of academic standards, program structures, and cultural exchange possibilities between our institutions,” Thomas shared.
Thomas noted the meetings were productive and well-received, as the universities expressed “strong interest” in expanding cooperation, particularly in areas such as business, education, and technology programs.
“The visit provided valuable insight into current trends in South Korean higher education, and face-to-face discussions helped build trust and deepen relationships that are essential for long-term collaboration,” Thomas said. “Additionally, campus tours provided a clearer perspective on academic environments and student support services.”
According to Thomas, Myongji University highlighted its strong internationalization strategy and welcomed further cooperation. Namseoul University administrators expressed interest in expanding joint degree programs and enhancing student exchange opportunities, particularly in Graduate Business Programs. Soongsil University emphasized global education, aligning with CU’s applied learning and international engagement goals.
“The institutions demonstrated strong enthusiasm for continued discussions and appreciated the in-person engagement as a sign of commitment and respect,” Thomas noted. “This visit was significant in reinforcing our university’s international presence in East Asia and ensuring sustained engagement with key partners in a competitive global education landscape.”
Thomas added, “All three universities are Christian and are similar to CU with respect to the profession and participation in faith filled missions and services.”
According to Thomas, potential outcomes from these visits include new articulation or transfer agreements, short-term faculty exchange initiatives and development of joint research projects. Universities also expressed interest in establishing new degree pathways. Thomas added follow-up virtual meetings, draft agreements and visits from our colleagues from South Korea are planned for the coming months to formalize next steps and ensure ongoing progress.
