In an increasingly interconnected world, the question of how to cultivate globally-minded leaders has never been more pressing. Four Duke University students are now positioned to contribute meaningfully to this challenge after being named Schwarzman Scholars, earning them a fully-funded opportunity to pursue a one-year master's degree in global affairs at Tsinghua University in Beijing.

Selected from a competitive pool of nearly 5,000 applicants worldwide, Anya Button, Yutao Gong, Hope Jackson, and Jie Vincent Liu will join approximately 150 scholars in the program's newest cohort. The prestigious Schwarzman Scholars initiative aims to foster future leadership and strengthen ties between emerging leaders and China through cultural exchange and academic collaboration.

Exceptional Candidates with Diverse Backgrounds

The selection process prioritizes demonstrated leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, and genuine enthusiasm for cross-cultural understanding—qualities all four Duke recipients embody in their unique ways.

Anya Button , a Massachusetts native set to graduate this spring with a sociology degree and certificate in markets & management, brings professional experience from Goldman Sachs, Bank of America, and Serena Ventures. Her academic and professional trajectory demonstrates the interdisciplinary approach valued by the program.

Yutao Gong , originally from Shanghai and a 2020 Duke graduate with degrees in environmental science and statistical science, impressed selectors with his commitment to sustainability initiatives and vision for addressing global environmental challenges.

Hope Jackson from Virginia has focused her career on reproductive justice and women's health advocacy, reflecting her dedication to addressing pressing social issues through policy and activism.

Jie Vincent Liu , a Chengdu native who earned dual degrees in computer science and economics, serves as founder and CEO of MyTeaPal, where he leverages tea culture as a vehicle for international diplomacy and mutual understanding.

A Transformative Year Ahead

During their year in Beijing, the scholars will immerse themselves in an intensive curriculum combining coursework, cultural experiences, and professional development opportunities. The program's structure emphasizes leadership training through case studies, mentorship, and firsthand engagement with China's evolving role in global affairs.

"What makes the Schwarzman Scholars program distinctive is its focus on creating a network of future leaders who genuinely understand China's perspective in international relations," noted a program spokesperson. "These Duke students exemplify the kind of curious, adaptable leadership we need to navigate complex global challenges."

The experience promises to enhance the scholars' global competencies while fostering lasting connections among an international cohort. As they prepare for this transformative opportunity, all four scholars expressed enthusiasm about deepening their understanding of China's cultural, economic, and political landscape—knowledge that will inform their future work as globally engaged leaders.