The Republic of Vietnam Endowment for Vietnamese Studies

The Republic of Vietnam Endowment for Vietnamese Studies


The University of California, Berkeley is proud to announce the establishment of the Republic of Vietnam Endowment at the Center for Southeast Asia Studies (CSEAS). Made possible by a generous $500,000 pledge from Cuong Duc Nguyen and Mary Bui Nguyen, the endowment will serve as a permanent foundation for the study of Vietnam’s complex histories, vibrant cultures, and enduring global legacy. 

Housed within the Institute of East Asian Studies (IEAS), CSEAS will use the new funding to support a wide range of academic initiatives. These include graduate student fellowships, faculty research, and the hosting of visiting scholars, as well as public-facing programs such as lectures, workshops, and international conferences.

The endowment arrives at a pivotal moment for Southeast Asian studies, ensuring that the study of Vietnam remains a focal point of rigorous academic inquiry at one of the world’s leading research institutions. The funds will be administered under the direction of CSEAS and affiliated faculty, providing the flexibility to respond to emerging research trends and educational needs.