Carter School of Business Students Engage with Taiwanese Executives in Unforgettable Travel Study

The City of Dallas has long enjoyed a strong partnership with Taiwan, one that continues to grow through new avenues of collaboration. Earlier this year, that relationship deepened with the establishment of The Taiwan Trade and Investment Service Center, dedicated to expanding economic ties and strengthening supply chain cooperation. Building on this momentum, Dallas Baptist University's Carter School of Business and the Center for Global Studies created a unique travel-study experience to Taiwan, made possible through the generous support of DBU Trustee Dr. Charles Ku.

During Fall Break 2025, three Carter School of Business professors led twenty undergraduate business students on an academic trip to Taiwan, where they engaged with executives and innovators across a range of industries. The group's leader, H. Rick Jordan, Assistant Professor of Management and Management Department Chair, noted that students encountered a wonderful country where "ancient tradition meets cutting-edge innovation." Also teaching throughout the trip were DBU faculty members Dr. Christina Chen, Professor of Statistics and Chinese, and Sandra Crawford Williamson, Assistant Professor of Marketing and Marketing Department Chair.

The DBU team met with several organizations at the forefront of biotechnology, smart manufacturing, urban development, product innovation, and media. At MetaTech (AP) Inc., Vice Chairman Alex Chen shared about the company's groundbreaking work in regenerative medicine and how its advancements in cell therapy are transforming lives around the world. Steven Chen, Vice President of HwaCom Systems, discussed the company's development of a smart transportation system for Taiwan's National Freeway Network, an initiative designed to enhance efficiency and safety on a national scale.

At Super Dragon Technology Co., DBU students were welcomed as the company's first international visitors and saw firsthand how sustainability and profitability can align through advanced recycling and precious metal recovery solutions. Global executives at Nuna, a leading baby stroller manufacturer, offered insight into their beautifully designed, safety-focused products and the global marketing strategies behind their success.

The team also stepped into the fast-paced world of Taiwanese broadcast media during a visit to Sanlih Media Group, learning how the company is pioneering AI-based marketing tools. While enjoying tea in a historic Taipei district, students met Yi-Cheng Jou, a prominent political activist turned visionary entrepreneur, who shared how he helped revitalize Taipei's oldest shopping street.

Reflecting on the experience, senior finance major Isaiah Tiemann described the trip as "stepping into the future by touring revolutionary businesses… each visit made me realize how far innovation can go when creativity and purpose collide."

In addition to these extraordinary interactions, DBU students experienced Taiwan's vibrant culture by visiting historic buildings, walking the city's serene gardens, eating meals in Taipei's famous street markets, and enjoying incredible city views from Taipei 101. DBU Chancellor Dr. Gary Cook made an appearance on the trip as well, as they joined him at a special dinner for DBU's Taiwanese alumni. The impact on senior management major, Hannah Aquino, was substantial: "I learned that even though we may have different cultures and speak different languages, our God is powerful and Lord of it all. I returned to the United States in awe of who God is and in love with His people in Taipei, Taiwan!"

Dr. Jon Dooley, Assistant Vice President of International Affairs and Global Studies, explained, "This is the goal for all DBU's Global Study programs, that students would not only increase their knowledge and skills through unique experiential learning but that they would encounter the Lord and He would expand their worldview."

The journey to Taiwan proved to be far more than an ordinary study trip. "This trip was a life-changing journey that expanded perspectives, built global connections, and reminded every traveler that the world is a classroom waiting to be explored," shared Professor Jordan. Students echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude that the Carter School of Business places such high value on providing meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.

Senior entrepreneurship major Matthew Mitchell reflected, "Studying international marketing in Taiwan was a dream come true for me. My experiences on Global Studies trips have undoubtedly been the highlights of my DBU journey."