"Welfare Sentiments, Dreams of Nan Shi" Nanjing Normal University’s New Year Gala for the year 2024 held at Xianlin Campus

With vigorous effort and steady progress, we bid farewell to the joy of harvest and growth in 2023; as we embark on the journey ahead with determination, 2024 quietly arrives with anticipation and passion. On December 27th, the New Year Celebration for the year 2024 at Nanjing Normal University took place at the Xianlin campus sports center. The entire university leadership, some former leaders, representatives from collaborating units, alumni, heads of various faculties and departments, and student representatives gathered to welcome the arrival of the new year.

The opening video, titled “Striving for the Best at NNU,” led the audience of faculty and students in a collective reflection on the outstanding achievements in the school’s development in 2023. It paid tribute to every individual at Nanjing Normal University, acknowledging them as contributors and fighters in the university’s progress.

On behalf of the university’s Party Committee and administration, Chengbin Wang, the secretary of the Party Committee, extended the warmest greetings, heartfelt gratitude, and sincere blessings to all the hardworking faculty and staff, dedicated students, retired comrades who have made significant contributions, domestic and international alumni who have supported the school’s development, and all levels of leadership and individuals from various sectors who care and support the development of the school. Wang emphasized the collective efforts and dedication in 2023, accelerating the construction of “NNU as the first, unique, and best.” He highlighted the substantial breakthroughs made on the journey towards building a top-tier university. Looking ahead to 2024, marking the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China and a crucial year in concluding the “14th Five-Year Plan,” Wang stressed that constructing a first-class university is not just a dream but a resounding and powerful stride. He called for joint anticipation and effort to achieve new breakthroughs, ascend to new heights, and compose new chapters in major projects, platforms, talents, and achievements.

President Guihong Hua announced the “Ten Major Achievements in the Development of the University in 2023,” expressing warm congratulations on the outstanding achievements and remarkable contributions made by faculty, staff, and the vast number of young students throughout the year. Under the collective efforts of the entire university community in 2023, significant progress and outstanding results were achieved in various aspects of the university’s work. Research projects reached new heights, achievements in talent development were evident, and students excelled in various competitions and evaluations, continuously enhancing the university’s overall strength.

 

The gala brought together numerous outstanding performances meticulously arranged by various departments, showcasing the vibrant and uplifting spirit of Nanjing Normal University through diverse forms of art such as songs, dances, instrumental performances, Peking Opera, and poetry recitations. These performances highlighted the lively and colorful campus cultural life of NNU and the dynamic enthusiasm of its faculty and students.

 

The gala officially commenced with the lively ensemble of traditional Chinese music titled “Celebrating the New Spring.”

With flowing red dresses and joyful melodies, the dance performance “National Prosperity” captivated us, allowing us to experience the bliss and happiness of a strong and prosperous nation.

The retired comrades presented a cheongsam show titled “Beauty of the East,” guiding us to appreciate the elegance of Oriental fashion culture.

The poetry recitation “Reading and Writing Hometown, Reading and Writing China” highlighted the profound cultural strength of Chinese rural heritage. The ensemble of traditional Chinese music, titled “Gazing at the Mountains,” depicted the magnificent landscapes of China.

The modern Peking Opera performance, “Melodies of Jinling,” eloquently narrated the long history of Nanjing, showcasing the unique charm and elegance of this ancient city.

A female vocal ensemble and a dance performance showcased the profound cultural heritage of traditional Chinese culture.

The medley of songs titled “Soaring Voices” showcased the enduring power of youth.

The instrumental ensemble featuring “Passionate Journey,” “Dragon Leaps at NNU,” and “Eight Odes of Congratulations” showcased the spirited and vigorous energy of Nanjing Normal University’s faculty and students.

The dance performance “Red Love” passed down the revolutionary spirit of predecessors in a captivating form, continuing the legacy of the red revolutionary genes.

With the mighty Yangtze River and the majestic Zhongshan Mountain, the flame of passion passed down through generations, the future vast and magnificent. The mixed chorus performance of “Our Youthful Promise” and the singing of the university anthem in unison by all university leaders, performers, and audience members together brought the gala to a climax and created a vibrant atmosphere.

The gala was marked by a clear theme, elegant style, exquisite beauty, and a grandiose atmosphere. Audiences followed the beats and symphony of the melodies, and the applause and cheers resonated continuously. Lucky audience members were selected, and interactive voting segments like “My Favorite Performance” and “Distinctive Insight Award” were included, creating a festive atmosphere for the celebration among the faculty and students.

As 2024 approaches, let’s step on new peaks, broaden our horizons, and sail with the winds of progress. Let’s also continue to move forward hand in hand, embarking on a new journey and composing a new chapter of achievements!