Cheon Seog Rim, a visiting physics professor from Hannam University, LC’s sister school in Korea, contributed $500 to support the Student Center. For a gift at this level, Rim was able to order a brick to be inscribed with his family’s name to be added to the Student Center main plaza.
Rim and his family spent 2012 in Lynchburg and he said he wanted to express gratitude for the many kindnesses they received while here. “Our concern was how to express our appreciation,” Rim said.
As they prepared to return home in January, they made the donation, saying that they wished the College much success in the future.
Rim spent part of his time doing research and working on improving his English language skills, but he said the year in the U.S. was even more beneficial to his family.
“One of most important things is to give a chance of U.S. education for my kids,” he wrote in an email. “My son and daughter got along with many good friends in their school life. And they learned lots of good relationships, experiences, and habits from school. Now, they’re able to utilize English very well enough to read English novels and get all As in their grade including advanced math and science.”
LC and Hannam first signed a sister institution agreement in 1984. Hannam University was founded in 1956 on Christian principles by the Presbyterian Church (USA), and is committed to becoming a leading Asian Christian School. Hannam launched the first “Global College” in Korea, where students learn international trade and marketing concepts as part of an intensive, English-only curriculum.
For several summers, LC students have visited Hannam in a study abroad program. Classes focus on Korean language and culture while students explore Buddhist temples and taste Korean cuisine with their Korean “buddies.” The program’s buddy system pairs LC students with Hannam students who introduce their international friends to Korean life and culture. This system enhances the student experience, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and friendship building. Activities include a two-day excursion to Seoul, the South Korean capital. Students enroll in a three-credit course at Hannam University and receive transfer credit through this experience.