The Whitney International Project Charitable Trust is more than just an initiative—it's a vision for the future of young Chinese scholars seeking to become global leaders. Founded by Prof. Stephen Wilmarth, a pioneering American educator and entrepreneur who played a crucial role in the development of modern Chinese international schools from 2006 to 2015, the Whitney International Project Charitable Trust embodies a commitment to advancing education, cultural understanding, and leadership development.
Prof. Wilmarth’s tenure in China is marked by innovation and collaboration. He worked hand-in-hand with Chinese universities, schools, and organizations such as the College Board, the Asia Society, and U.S. universities to create groundbreaking international school programs. His efforts were instrumental in bridging Eastern and Western educational approaches, and his legacy as a champion for international learning in China continues to impact countless students today. His work has been widely recognized, including a prominent interview by Chinese students for China Hands Magazine, a Yale University student publication
In 2015, Professor Wilmarth and his Chinese wife, Ms. Lindan Hu, returned to their hometown of New Haven, Connecticut. Their home in New Haven is located in the Yale University campus. Their living environment incorporates many traditional Chinese cultural elements: traditional Chinese furniture, traditional Chinese teahouses, paintings and decorations by Chinese painter friends, etc., reflecting their deep appreciation of Chinese culture. The private teahouse (Lindan’s Tea Space) carefully decorated by his wife, Ms. Lindan Hu, has become a traditional tea culture exchange center for the Yale community.
The tea culture promotion activities initiated by Yale student and scholar tea culture volunteers have become a very influential public welfare cultural project for traditional cultural exchanges between the Yale University community and the Chinese community in Connecticut. Ms. Hu teaches traditional Chinese tea art to Yale students and scholars from all over the world, and closely supports the Yale Chinese Students and Scholars Association, the Yale Chinese Program, the Yale Community Student Club, and various large-scale cultural activities in the Connecticut Chinese community to promote traditional Chinese culture.
From this foundation of cross-cultural engagement and education, Prof. Wilmarth and Ms. Hu launched the Whitney International Project Charitable Trust. Since its inception, the Trust has provided scholarships, school donations, and cultural initiatives aimed at supporting Chinese students in the United States. The Trust is dedicated to nurturing the academic and personal growth of Chinese scholars who exhibit not only academic excellence but also a passion for social progress, leadership, and cultural understanding.
Established in 2018, the Whitney International Project Charitable Trust operates under the independent leadership of Prof. Wilmarth, focusing on creating opportunities for young scholars who aspire to become the next generation of global leaders. The Trust offers financial assistance to Chinese families and students committed to enhancing Chinese culture and global leadership. Each recipient undergoes a thorough selection process to ensure alignment with the core principles of social progress, wellness, and leadership.
Working in tandem with the Whitney International Project, the Charitable Trust aims to provide a comprehensive blend of educational opportunity and community involvement. This partnership is designed to empower China’s brightest young minds, equipping them with the tools, resources, and global perspectives needed to excel academically and lead in the community.
For more information about the Whitney International Project and the Charitable Trust, or to learn how you can get involved in supporting young Chinese scholars and their educational journeys, please contact Ms. Belinda Wang at belinda.wang@whitneyproject.org.
The Whitney International Project Charitable Trust is not just a funding source; it is a bridge to understanding, growth, and leadership. The Whitney International Project is where the aspirations of young scholars meet the support of a global network, fostering the emergence of well-rounded, culturally aware leaders who will shape the world of tomorrow.
