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This content was published: October 15, 2004. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.

PCC’s Clausen honored by Chinese government

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CASCADE CAMPUS – Larry Clausen, dean of Medical Technology and Science Division at Portland Community College’s Cascade Campus, has received a 2004 Friendship Award from the People’s Republic of China.Larry Clausen in a lab."I am honored and deeply appreciative of this recognition which reflects the work and friendship of my many colleagues in Wenzhou," said Clausen, who holds a doctorate in higher education administration from Harvard University. "Together we have built lasting bridges between our two countries, and I look forward to further opportunities for collaboration."Clausen, a Beaverton resident, joined PCC in 2003 following his return from a one-year fellowship at the Wenzhou Medical College in the Zhejiang Province. The Wenzhou Medical College, which nominated Clausen, cited his many contributions to the advancement of its educational and international programs during the past decade. While in Wenzhou, Clausen served as an international consultant to the Bureau of Education in the municipal government of Wenzhou – the first American appointed in the city’s government.Clausen also guided the development of highly successful programs of international exchange and cooperation in the 1990’s, chaired the first and second international advisory meeting for the China National Optometry Research Center, and was instrumental in advancing the emergence of China’s first optometry program within the college’s Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry. "Dr. Clausen is very respected by the faculties and staff of our college for his capability and easy going personality," said Qu Jia, president of Wenzhou Medical College commented. "During his stay in Wenzhou he was an important part of our administration, and his leadership and management of international affairs was widely respected."Established in 1991 under the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs, the prestigious "Friendship Award" honors outstanding contributions made by foreign experts to the development of Chinese society, economy, technology, science, and education. The award, given to 50 winners this year, has now been given to more than 750 foreign experts from 55 nations.

About James Hill

James G. Hill, an award-winning journalist and public relations writer, is the Director of Public Relations at Portland Community College. A graduate of Portland State University, James has worked as a section editor for the Newberg Graphic... more »