Introduction I was honored to engage with Lehigh University’s Martindale Student Associates as they embarked on their research journey focused on Taiwan, a place that has been my home and center of my professional life for over 25 years. Graduating in 1998, my Lehigh experience was incredibly important and remains highly vivid—the relationships established, education, and college experiences all played pivotal roles in my personal and professional growth. My curiosity in Asian studies and Chinese language led me to enter the first Lehigh in China program during summer 1996, where I spent time in Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, learning about multinational and Asian businesses, experiencing the history and culture, and understanding the importance of relationships in Asia. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in international relations, I began my career in Taipei in financial services before transitioning to health care, building a career in Asia that has stretched over two and a half decades. Today, with the macroeconomic situation globally, Taiwan stands at a critical point in its growth and global position in trade, investments, and technology. This reality made supporting the 2024 Martindale program in Taiwan even more significant, given the opportunity to share with the scholars my Taiwan experiences and perspectives. The conversations during their visit were engaging and profound, covering Taiwan’s aging society, its health-care system, economic growth and foreign investment climate, alternative energy and innovative technologies such as AI and semiconductors, and women’s programs and rights. These discussions were furthered as students met with various stakeholders across the island. The breadth of topics explored in this volume is remarkable, reflecting Taiwan’s multifaceted challenges and opportunities. From the cultural significance of Taiwanese horror cinema as a lens for understanding cultural identity to water resource management reform, vulnerabilities in energy dependence, the promise of precision health, defending democratic media against disinformation, and navigating the transition from “silicon island” to “AI island,” these young scholars have tackled pressing issues with remarkable depth and insight. What particularly impressed me was not only how the authors sought to understand complexities but also their commitment to engaging with real challenges. Whether examining the sustainability of Taiwan’s superaged health-care system, cybersecurity as a cornerstone of defense and security policy, the startup ecosystem, renewable energy opportunities, the declining birth rate crisis, or how national identity shapes human rights, each article demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of Taiwan’s uniqueness. When I reflect, I am highly thankful for my time at Lehigh and its programs, which allow students to gain experience, seek advice, learn from experts, and further their goals. This is precisely why the Martindale program is so important to the university and each student’s development. As you read these articles, you will appreciate not only the research depth but also how these emerging leaders provide recommendations valuable for policymakers, executives, and stakeholders to consider as Taiwan continues to evolve and strengthen its global presence. I sincerely hope these scholars will maintain their connection to Taiwan and return to contribute to its resilient future. Jon McMillan '98 Head of Strategic Development Emerging Asia Hologic, Inc. Taipei, Taiwan x doi:10.18275/pbe-v043-001
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