RM Liu Foundation gift supports creation of Institute for Asia and Asian Studies at Notre Dame
The RM Liu Foundation has made a gift to the University of Notre Dame to endow a new Institute for Asia and Asian Studies.
Based in Gardena, Calif., the foundation supports the philanthropic activities of Robert and Mimi Liu and their children, Emily and Justin, both of whom are Notre Dame graduates.
“We are expanding the international dimensions of Notre Dame in many ways, and Asia is an especially important part of our plan,” said Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., the University’s president. “This significant gift will allow us to enhance our current initiatives and to grow in new and exciting directions. We are deeply grateful to Bob, Mimi, Emily and Justin for their visionary leadership and extraordinarily generous support.”
Speaking on behalf of his family, Justin Liu said: “We are honored to have the opportunity to establish and support the creation of the Liu Institute. Notre Dame provided Emily and me with an education and an overall learning experience that really shaped who we are today. Notre Dame has had an enormous impact on our family in so many ways, and we feel compelled and honored to give back to the University so that the student experience and opportunities for learning can continue to expand.
“If our goal is to prepare students for the world that faces them when they graduate, then understanding Asia is an absolute necessity. The role and impact Asia has on all of us, both directly and indirectly, is enormous and will continue to remain relevant at least through our lifetimes. Our goal is to establish a world class, renowned and multi-disciplinary institute that leverages Notre Dame’s strengths and that is consistent with the University’s overarching mission.”
