Founded in 1997, the Portland State Institute for Asian Studies (IAS) promotes public awareness, research, training, and curricular development on all parts of Asia.
Housed in the Office of Global Engagement and Innovation (formerly International Affairs), the IAS unites and works in cooperation with the Center for Japanese Studies at PSU to serve as a nexus and resource hub for Asia related programming.
Through networking, collaboration, partnerships, the cultivation of sponsorships, and fund-raising the Institute for Asian Studies aims to enhance Asian Studies programming and events that serve PSU students, faculty and staff, as well as the greater community. Drawing on the expertise over 70 faculty and academic professionals, across over 30 disciplines, the Institute for Asian Studies coordinates, sponsors and promotes a variety of Asia related events both on and off-campus, including public lectures, film screenings, visual art exhibitions, Asia related performances, education and cultural events, conferences, seminars, and special programs.
Working with PSU administration and faculty, the Institute for Asian Studies develops strategies for increasing the coherence and effectiveness of Portland State’s Asia programs and its profile in Asia. At the same time, IAS strives to facilitate coordination, collaboration and information/knowledge exchange with local, regional, national and international organizations on Asia related projects.