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Leaders of the African Diaspora Community Honored at HJI

On November 15, 2025, the National Day of Peace in Côte d’Ivoire, the Universal Peace Federation–USA, in partnership with Women for Peace in Africa, honored three outstanding leaders of the African diaspora community during a special ceremony held at the new campus of HJ International in Manhattan. Three dynamic young Africans received the Ambassador for Peace certificate in recognition of their service, leadership, and commitment to promoting peace within their communities. Mr. Bakary “Bouba” Kida, Manager at American Express and Founder of...

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Alumni Directory Survey

HJI is working to update our alumni contact directory and to strengthen our growing community. As part of this effort, we’re launching a new HJI Alumni Newsletter featuring school updates, announcements, alumni highlights, and ways to stay connected. If you are an HJI/UTS alum, we invite you to take a moment to fill out our short survey using the link below. Kindly share your preferred contact information and confirm your interest in receiving the newsletter. Your information will be used only for HJI alumni communications and event updates. Thank you for...

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Imagining Biblical Narratives through the Hermeneutic of the Principle of Creation

HJI held a Faculty Roundtable on Thursday, November 13 at 7pm ET, hosted by Dr. Thomas Walsh, President. Dr. Andrew Wilson, Professor of Scriptural Studies spoke on “Imagining Biblical Narratives through the Hermeneutic of the Principle of Creation.” In the latest expression of Holy Mother Han’s theology, she writes, “Our Creator’s Principle of Creation is based on a pair system. Therefore, the fulfillment of God’s providence that Christianity and all religions have failed to realize and the culmination of fallen human history that cannot be achieved by men alone can only be...

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New Book: An Exploration of Unification Theology and the Christian Tradition

By Theodore Shimmyo | Published by HJI Press HJI is pleased to announce the publication the latest book by Dr. Theodore Shimmyo, HJI Adjunct Professor of Theology. Entitled An Exploration of Unification Theology and Christian Tradition and published by HJI Press, it bridges Unification and Christian theology, promoting deeper understanding and dialogue between the two faith traditions. Available now for purchase on Amazon here! Rooted in the biblical and Christian tradition, Unification theology has often been misunderstood, creating tension between Unificationists and...

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A Contemporary Theology of Human Spirituality

In collaboration with the Higher Purpose Forum, “A Contemporary Theology of Human Spirituality” was held online on Thursday, October 9, at 7 p.m. ET. Dr. Theodore Shimmyo, President Emeritus and Adjunct Professor of Theology at HJI, presented a scripturally grounded understanding of human spirituality aimed at fostering lasting peace, and Rev. Miilhan Stephens, Pastor of the Boston Family Church, served as the respondent.The event explored how contemporary theology can address critiques of traditional Christian thought and offer frameworks that promote harmony rather than division....

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Alumna Spotlight – Marlies Ladstaetter

HJI Alumna 2024, MA in Peace Studies | Austria What inspired you to apply to HJI and your program? What do you most appreciate about being a student at HJI? I was inspired to apply to HJI and the Master in Peace Studies because of its international focus and dedication to fostering global understanding, which aligns perfectly with my passion for peace and intercultural dialogue. Having volunteered with UPF Austria and IAYSP Austria, I developed a strong desire to further explore peacebuilding and international cooperation.  HJI’s diverse environment offers the ideal platform...

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Constitutional Law and Rights

“Constitutional Law and Rights” was held online on Tuesday, September 30, at 7 p.m. ET, in honor of Constitution Day and in memory of William Lay, JD (1952–2025), a beloved former Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice and Human Security at HJI. Hosted by Dr. Thomas Walsh, President of HJI, the event featured the final lecture on the U.S. Constitution by Professor Lay and was followed afterward with commentary from W. Farley Jones, Esq., and Peter Ross, Esq. Watch the Replay here.

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Catastrophic Event Policy and Procedures

Responsible Executives: President, Provost, Vice President for AdministrationResponsible Office: President’s OfficeEffective: 10/13/2025Last Reviewed: 10/13/2025Revised: 10/13/2025 Policy Statement Continuity of Operations Records Protection Program and Institutional Closure Facilities Appendix   Policy Statement Catastrophic events and other crises or emergency situations may disrupt the normal educational process at HJ International Graduate School for Peace and Public Leadership (HJI). HJI is committed to provide a safe environment for its staff and...

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Statement of Support for HJI Founder, Hak Ja Han

HJ International Graduate School for Peace and Public Leadership On October 10, Hak Ja Han, 82 years old co-founder of HJI, was formally indicted in her homeland of South Korea on charges of collusion in political lobbying, charges that have been denied.  A trial date has not been set.  The following statement of support represents the views of the Board of Trustees, the President, and the Faculty and Staff of HJI. Hak Ja Han, at 32 years of age and shortly after moving to America together with her husband, founded the HJI, then known as Unification Theological Seminary, as...

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