SUNY China 150

This was one of the most inspirational events that I've photographed, probably ever.

After the earthquake in Sichuan provence last May, a program was set up at the 22 SUNY schools where 150 college aged students to attend one year of study at any of the 22 schools.

On Friday, Stony Brook hosted a "Thanksgiving" event for the students that are studying at three schools on Long Island, Farmingdale, Maritime, and Stony Brook.  The head of the China Chamber of Commerce was there, and Ambassador Peng.  He was like a rock star to these students.  Here's this guy who shows up with an entourage in a chauffeured car, with police in dress uniforms with white gloves opening doors for him, and he was so natural with these students.  At one point during the event, they were all on stage and they went out into the audience and dragged him on stage to sing with them, and he happily complied.  I've never seen a dignitary break loose like that.  It was really cool.

-Sam

Stony Brook's Charles B. Wang Center, where the event was held.

Ambassador Peng on the phone before the event formally begins.

Ambassador Peng making small talk over tea before the event begins.

Peng being greeted by the China 150 students.

This is when I realized that the students really saw him as something special, so I used the video guy's light to give him that rock star look.

China 150 students from Stony Brook reading a poem about their experiences thus far.

Stundents from Farmingdale recounting their time in the U.S. and what it's meant to them.

Farmingdale students appearing quite emotional during one of their songs.

One of the students from Maritime sharing his remarks.

Ambassador Peng on stage with all of the students.

And having a great time!

The Stony Brook Lion Dance Team doing their thing.  The costume was awesome, with blinking eyes and a moving mouth and everything.  I just wish it wasn't black, so that it would have been easier to see in the dark.

One of the students being interviewed by Chinese media.

All of the Long Island students with the dignitaries from SUNY and the Chinese Consulate that made China 150 happen.

I wish I looked so poised with chopsticks.  For me, they're like food catapults.

Ambassador Peng chilling with the China 150 students.