Soong Mayling (Madame Chiang Kai-shek) and Her World

Soong Mayling (1899-2003; Boston University Hon. '89), also known as Madame Chiang Kai-shek, was described by Life magazine in 1937 as “probably the most powerful woman in the world.” This academic panel will present cutting-edge research in relation to the military, political, literary, philanthropic, and gender worlds of her time, especially during war. Topics include female leadership and philanthropy; Japanese and Chinese propaganda; Agnes Smedley; Claire L. Chennault, the Flying Tigers, and Chinese Americans and World War Two. Chaired by Esther Hu, author of Soong Mayling and Wartime China, 1937-1945: Deploying Words as Weapons (2025) and English translator of A Legacy of Grace and Resilience: Soong Mayling and Her Era (2023; 2024 2nd edition). Program: Welcome Scott Taylor, Dean, Pardee School of Global Studies OPENING REMARKS Charles Liao, Director General, TECO-Boston PANELISTS Esther Hu (Chair), Pardee School of Global Studies, BU June Grasso, College of General Studies, BU Hiromi Miyagi-Lusthaus, World Languages and Literatures, BU David Mayers, History and Political Science, BU William S. Chen, Major General (Ret.), U. S. Army, Son of Flying Tigers pilot H. Moon Chen