The Ohio State University proudly hosted the 74th annual Midwest Conference on Asian Affairs (MCAA) from October 10–12, welcoming scholars, students, and community members from across the United States of America and around the world. Organized by the East Asian Studies Center, the three-day event brought together participants from over 80 institutions, including nine international universities, making it one of the most dynamic regional gatherings in recent years.

With 273 registrants and 137 presentations across 39 panels, the conference provided a vibrant forum for interdisciplinary exchange on Asian studies. The program featured two plenary talks, one cultural performance, and special sessions such as the Midwest Japan Seminar, emphasizing the region’s ongoing commitment to global scholarship and collaboration.

Ohio State students, faculty, and staff made up more than half of the attendees, reflecting the university’s strong engagement with Asian studies. The 2025 MCAA underscored Ohio State’s leadership in fostering academic dialogue, cultural understanding, and regional partnerships in Asian studies.

Story by Ramya Govardhan