[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Chinesealumni09PG.jpg” caption=”President Peter George speaking at the 10th Annual Chinese Alumni Dinner.”]Alumni, students and faculty rang in the Year of the Ox with a celebration of the Chinese New Year at the 10th Annual Chinese Alumni Dinner hosted by the McMaster Alumni Association. The dinner recognized Chinese alumni for their contributions to McMaster.

President Peter George attended the event and thanked alumni for their continued support of McMaster.

“I am unrelentingly optimistic about the future. The future of McMaster, the future of our country, the future of our international partnerships and the future of the McMaster family,” said President George. “This event and all of you here this evening, and everyone who has been part of it through the last decade has played a big role in building that optimism. For that I congratulate you and thank you.”

A portion of the event's proceeds support the Toronto chapter of the McMaster Chinese Alumni International Scholarship Fund, which awards entrance scholarships to level one visa students. Proceeds are raised through ticket sales, auctions and donations.

Members of the University's Chinese student clubs were in attendance to take part in the festivities as well as some of McMaster's international students.

“This event brings alumni, students and faculty together while raising funds for a worthwhile cause,” says Kathleen D'Amico, alumni officer, International Outreach. “The dinner also creates an opportunity for McMaster alumni to connect with one another as well as build connections for the future with current McMaster students.”

Luke Chan, associate vice-president, International Affairs, is instrumental in the organization of the Chinese Alumni Dinner along with a committee of alumni volunteers. The dinner was held at the Casa Victoria Banquet Hall in Markham and attracted over 190 alumni, students and faculty.