The Fulbright-Hays Seminars Abroad program sends American educators to China for four weeks every summer. This program, which has been administered by the National Committee since 1981, provides educators with the opportunity to gain valuable insight into a culture that is increasingly becoming an important element in American curricula.

Committee-organized study tour program supplements the academic training Chinese scholars and students already receive while studying at U.S. institutions by giving greater exposure to America’s history, culture, and key institutions.

During a three-week stay, delegation of Chinese municipal leaders, also including city planners, architects, and engineers, focuses on a wide spectrum of urban issues affecting American cities.

Two years before normalization of relations, program provides young American elected officials and others involved in local and state politics with an opportunity to meet with their counterparts and increase their understanding of China.

While a few staff members accompanied their Senators and Congressmen on Congressional trips to China in the early 70s, it was not until 1976 that the first group made up entirely of Senate and House committee staff members visited China.

Program sends delegation of leaders from American organizations active in public education about world affairs to China in October 1975. Visit provides opportunity for George H.W. Bush to meet Deng Xiaoping for the first time.

Academic exchange with the People’s Republic reaches new heights as U.S. delegation visits China, and is received by then Vice Premier Deng Xiaoping.

With its September 1973 trip to the People’s Republic, the Philadelphia Orchestra makes history, and paves the way for other American orchestras. Highlight for many are the information exchanges with Chinese musicians.

Working with the American Society of Newspaper Editors, the Committee expands its U.S.-China exchange programs beyond sports and culture by hosting a group of Chinese journalists. The Committee introduces them to their professional counterparts and provides a window into American life.

Less than eight months after Chinese ping pong team returns home, National Committee makes history again, hosting the Shenyang Acrobatic Troupe for a four-week, four-city tour.