Webster China Director Foristel Retires, Leadership Transition Ushers in New Era of Bilateral Academic Collaboration

Professor Richard Foristel, Director of Webster China, will retire at the end of May. As the founding director of Webster University in China, Foristel has been an irreplaceable figure, serving as a guiding force for three decades. 

As a cornerstone of Webster’s presence in China, Foristel’s collaborative work the Shanghai University of Economics and Finance (SUFE) and University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) created and fostered sustained growth and development. His meticulous leadership and commitment have earned him the highest recognition from both SUFE and UESTC. Further, Foristel’s contributions have been instrumental in advancing Sino-American higher education cooperation, leaving a lasting legacy that has shaped the landscape of cross-cultural academic exchange.

To build on this legacy and address the growing scope of the China academic programs, Webster University is transitioning from a single director of China programs to a co-directorship model. The responsibilities will be divided between two leaders — one focused on academics and the other on administration — to further enhance program quality and operational excellence.

Dr. Anthony Jarvis will assume the role of Co-Director for Academics. Jarvis brings a wealth of experience in higher education, having served as both a professor and senior administrator. Most recently, he held the position of Head of Academics at Webster University in Tashkent. His academic expertise spans international economics, history and global governance. 

Dr. Nelly Zhang, the longtime Director of China Partner Programs, will serve as Co-Director for Administration. In this capacity, she will continue to build upon her outstanding work in partner relations, commercial activities and student and employee support, ensuring continuity and further growth in these critical areas.

“This new structure positions Webster to further strengthen the academic performance of the Webster China partnerships while fostering new opportunities for innovation, access and opportunity,” said Ryan Guffey, Executive Vice President for Webster International. “Together, Dr. Jarvis and Dr. Zhang will lead Webster China into its next incredible chapter.” 

 The University extends its deepest gratitude to Professor Foristel for his three decades of service and looks forward to the new possibilities that this leadership evolution will bring to Webster’s programs in China.