An Assumption University of Thailand (AU) delegation visited the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) on February 11, 2026 as part of AU’s ongoing commitment to internationalization and high‑impact global partnerships. The visit marked an important step in renewing and expanding a collaboration of more than 30 years through the Theophane Venard School of Food Biotechnology and Innovation.
Hosted by UC Davis Global Affairs, the AU delegation met with key academic leaders from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences to explore the next phase of collaboration. Discussions were held with
Dr. Ashley Stokes, Dean, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Dr. Ermias Kebreab, Associate Dean of Global Engagement, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Dr. Michael Lazzara, Associate Vice Provost of Academic Programs and Partnerships
Ms. Esther Delozier, Assistant Director of Partnerships and Faculty Engagement
Dr. Ha Nguyen, Assistant Professor of Sensory Science, Department of Viticulture and Enology
Dr. Xin Chen, Director of International Partnerships and Development
Dr. Nitin Nitin Vice Chair, the Department of Food Science and Technology
Dr. Daniela Barile, the Department of Food Science and Technology
A central focus of the visit was the expansion of student mobility between AU and UC Davis through a four‑week short program and a semester‑abroad opportunity designed to give AU students access to world‑class teaching and research environments. The two institutions also explored future collaboration in areas such as research on transportation and new energy vehicles, as well as leveraging Thailand–China exchange initiatives to support joint academic projects.
Assumption University of Thailand extends its sincere appreciation to UC Davis Global Affairs and the wonderful team of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences for their warm hospitality and continued partnership. AU also gratefully acknowledges the invaluable support of Professor Glen Young, Professor Gary M. Smith, Dr. Sarah Olson, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Patchanee Yasurin, Dean of Theophane Venard School of Food Biotechnology and Innovation, a proud UC Davis alumna, whose dedication has helped sustain and deepen this longstanding academic relationship.
WRITER: THANANPORN SETHJINDA
More Information about Assumption University of Thailand (AU), please visit:
Website: https://www.au.edu/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/assumptionuniversity
Twitter: https://x.com/assumptionabac
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/assumptionu
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBArL_dL5XiXCiS5pDtyLpQ
Tel: (+66) -2783-2222
