Embodying Yonsei’s spirit of service and sharing, former Physics Professor Park Hong-Yee is now Dean of the College of Natural Sciences at Adama Science and Technology University (ASTU) in Ethiopia.  Professor Park, who also served as Director of Yonsei Volunteer Services, accepted the position at ASTU following his retirement from Yonsei.      
 When Professor Park first arrived at ASTU in May of 2012 he was surprised by the poor conditions at the school.  Many students were unable to afford textbooks, there was no electricity available for the science and technology laboratories, and professors would often not show up for their lectures.  Determined to create an educationally viable environment, Professor Park took a number of steps: he supplied students with electronic textbooks, procured electricity and functioning water faucets for labs, and instituted a policy requiring professors to demonstrate a valid reason for canceling lectures.  By securing emergency funds, Professor Park was also able to work with the school to establish work-study positions for students as lab assistants and tutors.  More scholarships were offered, while writing materials and better sanitation services were provided. 
 Because of these changes, and a stronger support network, students were able to focus more intently on their studies.  In fact, eight science students were chosen to continue their studies at universities in Germany, South Africa, and Korea, and four additional students are also slated to study abroad in the near future.  Professor Park believes that these students, in acquiring advanced knowledge of scientific theories and technologies overseas, will return home to become Ethiopia’s leaders in the field of the natural sciences.
 While Professor Park’s term as Dean will come to an end next year, he hopes to continue offering his services in various capacities to ASTU and its students.  “My endeavors at ASTU and the results are a combination of your help and my efforts,” Professor Park said in a speech at the school.  “I look forward to a bright future for Ethiopia, and I am excited and hopeful every day of this ‘second life.’  I will continue to practice Jesus Christ’s teachings here in Ethiopia and return next year to Korea.”  Professor Park’s example should serve to inspire other Yonseians for decades to come.