Kirk Martin, director of Drake’s Chinese Cultural Exchange program, will be honored with a 25 Years Contribution Award from the Chinese Association of Iowa on Feb. 25. This series of awards recognizes the contributions of individuals or organizations that make a significant contribution to advance or support global learning opportunities.

Martin was nominated and selected as an honoree of the organization’s International Education Leadership Award. Recipients are chosen based on their records of distinguished service to an international education program.

Martin directs the Drake University Chinese Cultural Exchange program, which facilitates exchanges of faculty, students, and alumni between Drake University and educational institutions in China. The program offers opportunities for personal and professional development, and aims to promote diversity on campus.

The Chinese Association of Iowa’s 25th Anniversary committee will present Martin with the award during a ceremony on Feb. 25. Apart from honoring nominees, the reception will celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Chinese Association’s service to Iowa communities.

Founded in Des Moines in 1987, the Chinese Association of Iowa is a community-based, member-focused nonprofit organization. CAI represents the business, economic and community development of Iowa’s young and influential Chinese American community. It aims to promote cultural diversity and enrichment in the local community.