“A Melody of Memories, A Rainbow of Dreams”
The Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering (CSIE) at National Dong Hwa University (NDHU) proudly held its 2025 Tassel Turning Ceremony on the afternoon of May 24 at the Performance Arts Hall, Student Activities Center. Nearly 100 graduates and over 200 family members and friends gathered to witness this milestone moment marking the culmination of the students’ academic journeys.
This year’s ceremony welcomed an esteemed lineup of guests, including NDHU President Prof. Hui-Mi Hsu, College of Science and Engineering Vice Dean and CSIE Chair Prof. I-Cheng Chang, Vice Chair Prof. Tao-Ku Chang, as well as Professors Wen-Chieh Fang and Hung-Jui Chang. Their presence offered heartfelt support and blessings to the graduating class.
Reflecting the department’s vibrant international community, the event was further honored by the attendance of diplomatic representatives from four allied nations: H.E. Ambassador Andrea Bowman of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, H.E. Ambassador Candice Pitts of Belize, H.E. Ambassador Robert Lewis of Saint Lucia, and Madam Janet Orrukem, Education and Cultural Attaché and spouse of the Ambassador of Palau. In their inspiring remarks, they praised NDHU’s longstanding commitment to international education, recognized the department’s inclusive academic environment, and encouraged graduates to pursue their dreams with courage and a global perspective.
President Hsu addressed the graduates with admiration and encouragement: “Yet, through it all, you have demonstrated resilience, standing strong and reaching this incredible milestone. This strength is not only yours but is shared with the families, friends, and mentors who have supported you along the way.”
Prof. I-Cheng Chang, Chair of the CSIE Department, extended his appreciation to the ambassadors and spoke directly to the graduates: “Today, as you turn your tassels, you carry with you not only technical skills but the spirit of perseverance and unity. The world of technology is evolving rapidly, and you are ready to lead that change.”
Ambassador Bowman commended the department’s long-standing care for Vincentian students, highlighting how NDHU CSIE has provided not only education but also a deep sense of belonging: “Dong Hwa is therefore the engine room of Vincentian patriotism and community cohesion in Taiwan. Thank you, Dong Hwa; thank you, students.”
Ambassador Pitts encouraged students to be brave and empathetic: “The world does not just need more people with more degrees to hang in a frame on their walls. Instead, the world needs more dreamers who dare to build, more leaders who listen, more doers who care.”
Ambassador Lewis shared, “Learning never ends. Learning adds to your personal worth and what you can do for your community and for the world..”Madam Orrukem warmly reflected, “As you all move forward into the next chapter, may you carry with you the friendships, experiences, wisdom, and purpose that have defined your time here.”
The entire event was conducted bilingually, showcasing the department’s dynamic blend of academic excellence and global engagement. Under the theme “A Melody of Memories, A Rainbow of Dreams,” the ceremony celebrated the graduates’ vibrant past and their promising futures.
During the awards segment, the Phi Tau Phi Scholastic Honor Award was presented to Nguyen Minh Trang (International Bachelor’s Program). The Outstanding Academic Performance Award was conferred upon Yi-Yun Lee, Chih-An Lin, and Kai-Sheng Huang (Bachelor’s Program); Nguyen Minh Trang and Lin Jhih-Jhen Lin (International Program); Bo-Yu Chang, Gao-Ming Xu, and Mei-En Jian (Master’s Program); Michael Jordan (International Master’s Program); and Hsiao-Hui Hsu (AI Master’s Program)—a testament to academic excellence across all programs.
The County Magistrate’s Award was awarded to Wen-Chang Wu and Kai-En Chang (Bachelor’s Program), representing the local government’s high regard for their exemplary achievements. The Speaker’s Award went to Pei-Rou Lin and Yin-Zhen Chen for their overall outstanding performance. The Excellence in Campus Service Award was presented to Kersten Indin Dismas (International Bachelor’s Program), while Britney Lu-Hannah McDonald, also from the International Program, received the TaiwanICDF Outstanding Achievement Award, highlighting the impressive achievements of international students. Special recognition was given to Yu-Chia Chen (Bachelor’s Program) with the Special Contribution Award, honoring her enthusiastic dedication and voluntary service to the department’s activities and growth.
Valedictorian Josue David Fernandez Sandoval from the International Bachelor’s Program delivered a heartfelt and inspiring speech that deeply resonated with the audience. Reflecting on his journey, he expressed sincere gratitude to his professors and family, and shared an encouraging message with his fellow graduates: “Don’t be afraid to try. Even when the odds seem stacked against you. Even when you feel like an imposter. Even when you think someone else would do it better. Trying opens doors, even if it doesn’t work out. And sometimes, it does.”
The ceremony culminated with all graduates ascending the stage for the tassel turning ritual—a symbolic gesture marking their readiness to embark on new adventures. The department also prepared a commemorative video and surprise gifts for graduates as a token of gratitude for the creativity and vitality they brought to the CSIE community. This year’s celebration was not only a moment of heartfelt farewells and appreciation but also a vivid testament to NDHU CSIE’s global outlook, educational strength, and the boundless dreams of its students.
The Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering at National Dong Hwa University is committed to international education and multicultural exchange, currently welcoming students from over 20 countries and partnering with universities worldwide. The department’s programs span AI, data science, IoT, digital innovation, and many more fields, fostering both technical expertise and global competitiveness. Multiple scholarships and exchange opportunities are available for students passionate about technology and eager to explore the world stage.
Congratulations once again to all graduates. May your future be bright, your dreams bold, and your sails forever forward!