08/03/2026
From Hosts to Guests: A Hong Kong Alumni Recap of UW Converge Tokyo (Feb 24 – Mar 1, 2026)
It’s hard to believe that just 18 months ago, we were on the other side of the stage. In August 2024, the Hong Kong Huskies had the immense privilege of hosting UW Converge Hong Kong, celebrating a decade of this incredible global gathering with immediate past President Ana Mari Cauce. We poured our hearts into welcoming nearly 200 alumni, friends, and UW leadership to our city, and the memories of that weekend—the panels, the gala, the Cantonese opera—are still vivid.
So, welcoming VP Danzil Suite and Matthew Britton for a Pre Converge Happy Hour on the 24-25th Feb drums up next few days as the arriving in Tokyo from February 27th to March 1st, 2026, for UW Converge Tokyo felt like a wonderful full-circle moment. This time, we weren’t the organizers; we were thrilled attendees, ready to be hosted and inspired. And from the moment we arrived, it was clear the Japan Huskies had done a phenomenal job.
The excitement started even before the summit. It was fantastic to walk into the Engineering Panel while some went to the Law event and Husky Happy Hour on Friday evening and immediately spot so many familiar faces from Hong Kong, Seattle, and other chapters. The true highlight, however, was the chance to finally meet new UW President Robert J. Jones in person. After following his vision for the University’s future from afar, it was energizing to welcome him into the international Husky community and hear his commitment to global collaboration face-to-face.
The energy carried through to Saturday’s summit with the theme, “At the Forefront: Insights on Business, Technology and Global Collaboration,” resonated deeply with our experiences in Hong Kong’s dynamic hub. We were captivated by the lineup—from a virtual keynote by Nobel laureate David Baker to powerhouse panels on AI, semiconductors, and global finance featuring distinguished alumni. It felt like a masterclass in the forces shaping our world, delivered with the UW’s unique interdisciplinary flair.
But the best part? Simply being part of the audience. We could soak in the insights from deans like Nancy Allbritton and Frank Hodge without worrying about AV setups or banquet logistics. We could fully enjoy the spectacular evening reception, complete with the ceremonial kagami biraki sake barrel opening and a chance to connect with old friends and new contacts from Tokyo’s vibrant business community.
A huge thank you to the UW Converge Tokyo Executive Committee and Planning Committee—Kenji Hashidate, Shuhei Tajima, and all the dedicated volunteers. Your hospitality was flawless, from the engaging panels to the promise of Sunday’s volunteer-led tours. You’ve set a new standard for what it means to be a gracious host.
Leaving Tokyo, we feel more connected than ever to this global network. It was a privilege to host in 2024, but it feels equally special to be welcomed as part of this family. We’re already looking forward to seeing you at Converge Taiwan in Feb 2027—and to catching up with all the new friends we made in Tokyo. Go Huskies!
