The Foundation is unique in the educational history of China and Taiwan. Its uniqueness comes from the confluence of one of the most turbulent periods in modern Chinese history and a genuine gesture of friendship from the American people. Its trustees have been some of the most distinguished intellectuals and diplomats in either country. Among its founding trustees were John Dewey, a household name in the world of the American intellectuals, and Roger S. Greene, Vice Chairman of the Rockefeller Foundation. Its Chinese trustees have also been top scholars and diplomats of their time. For example, Dr. Hu Shih, father of the modernism movement in China, was for many years the Director and the driving force of the Foundation. Even though the Foundation's resources are limited, its significance is enormous. It acts as a beacon for the advancement of science and culture in China, with a determination to fulfil the Foundation's mission to contribute to culture and education to this day.
