Dear Friends,

As chair of the Liu Institute for Asia and Asian Studies Advisory Board, I am pleased to write a few words about the recent transition of leadership at the Institute.

The Institute was fortunate to have been led by founding director Michel Hockx, who served from 2016 until June 30, 2026. Michel’s leadership and success cannot be overstated, with remarkable strides made in developing and implementing a strategic vision for the Institute. During his tenure—and with the support of a talented, dedicated staff—the Notre Dame community has been exposed to a variety of speakers, courses, activities and cultural events related to Asia as the Liu Institute became integrated into the fabric of life at Notre Dame.

On behalf of the Advisory Board, I thank Michel for all that he has contributed to advance learning, scholarship, and intercultural understanding at Notre Dame over the past ten years. We are happy that Michel will remain connected to the Institute as one of our new faculty fellows.

At the same time, we welcome interim director Kyle Jaros, a political scientist and professor for the Keough School of Global Affairs, who assumed responsibilities on July 1. I have been impressed with Kyle’s dedication to the Liu Institute’s mission, and I know he will continue the Institute's excellent progress on various fronts, including student success, research and enrichment opportunities, and thematic clusters.

Thank you for your interest in and support of the Liu Institute, especially at this exciting time when we reflect upon past successes and look forward to new opportunities.

In Notre Dame,

Paul Roberts ’71
Advisory Board Chair