Shenzhen, China – December 20, 2025 – Peking University’s School of Transnational Law (STL) marked a significant milestone with the successful hosting of its 2025 State of STL and Alumni Gathering event on December 20. The event brought together faculty, students, and alumni in a spirit of reflection, engagement, and celebration. Attendees shared academic insights, professional experiences, and future visions, reaffirming the strength of the STL community.
The event was co-hosted by the STL Shenzhen Alumni Chapter and the STL Student Union, with alumni Zhang Liang (Entering Class of 2009) and student Chen Manrong (Entering Class of 2024) serving as the event’s hosts. Professor Mark Feldman, Interim Dean of STL, delivered the keynote State of STL Report, where he highlighted the School's achievements over the past year.
Professor Feldman emphasized STL's commitment to cultivating internationally-minded legal professionals with a focus on global rule of law development. The Class of 2025 graduated 158 students, with an impressive 95.9% employment rate (by September 2025) in fields such as law firms, state-owned enterprises, government, and business. STL’s international programs also expanded, with 19 LLM students joining from 15 countries and regions.
The Career Mentor Program, launched in its second phase, attracted 86 seasoned professionals, further enhancing the School’s practical training offerings. Additionally, STL alumni continue to make waves in the legal field, with Wang Yongzhe (Entering Class of 2010) funding the "Jingding Shijia" Full Scholarship and multiple alumni securing leadership roles or receiving prestigious awards in the legal sector.
One of the most exciting announcements was the launch of the International Intellectual Property Academy, a joint venture between Peking University and the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA). The new academy will serve as a global hub for intellectual property education, research, and talent development, aligning with China’s strategic goals for intellectual property and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
STL's academic excellence was also on display as students and faculty achieved impressive success. STL's moot court teams won national and international titles, including the Jessup International Law Moot Court National Championship, marking a 12-year victory streak. The school’s academic research achievements were equally outstanding, with STL teams earning top honors in major national competitions and publishing groundbreaking research.
In faculty development, STL welcomed Professor Wu Xiaoping, a former WTO expert, to its resident faculty. The School’s faculty members continue to contribute to top-tier legal journals and international conferences, solidifying STL’s reputation for academic excellence.
The STL Alumni Association, under the leadership of Gu Dai (Class of 2008), reported a successful year, hosting 38 events, fostering cross-institutional networking, and strengthening connections within the legal community. Notable alumni-led initiatives such as the "Law-Business Dialogue" and "Peking-Tsinghua-Shenzhen International Arbitration Center Youth Exchange" promoted deeper engagement across sectors and alumni chapters.
Looking ahead, the Shenzhen Alumni Chapter, led by Zhou Qing (Class of 2012), is planning new initiatives for 2026, including a "Post-Graduation Classroom"
Toast to STL’s Future
During the celebratory toast, several distinguished guests took the stage to share their insights and experiences. Professor Ray Campbell, Professor Sang Yop Kang, Professor Huang Hui, Professor Mao Shaowei, alumni representative You Dongming, and current student representative Zhang Yue each spoke, reflecting on the growth of STL, offering valuable practical insights, and discussing the School’s future direction.
Their speeches underscored a deep affection for STL and a shared sense of community. The speakers emphasized STL's ongoing commitment to fostering innovation in legal education and strengthening the development of foreign-related legal talent in the era of globalization. They also expressed a strong belief in the future of STL, highlighting the importance of continued mutual support among faculty, students, and alumni as they move forward together.
The session culminated in a heartfelt toast, with all attendees raising their glasses to celebrate STL’s bright future and the enduring strength of its community.
Cultural Performances and Awards
Following the toast, an Award Ceremony was held to recognize alumni who have made outstanding contributions to the Alumni Association.Notable awards included the "Excellent Vice President" and "Excellent Deputy Secretary-General" titles, recognizing alumni for their leadership and dedication.
The evening featured cultural performances that celebrated both tradition and modernity. Performances included an instrumental piece, "Splendid National Music," a dance, "Fragrant Fan Hides Spring," and a live band performance of "Fly Me to the Moon". These artistic expressions embodied STL’s commitment to cultural exchange and community building.
Looking to the Future
The 2025 Annual Development Report and Alumni Gathering was more than just a celebration of STL’s achievements; it was a reaffirmation of the School’s commitment to global legal education and the continued success of its alumni. As STL looks toward the future, its faculty, students, and alumni remain united in their shared mission to shape the future of law, both in China and around the world.
About Peking University School of Transnational Law (STL)
Peking University School of Transnational Law (STL) is a leading transnational law school based in Shenzhen, China. STL offers innovative programs in legal education, focusing on preparing students to meet the challenges of the global legal landscape. With a diverse faculty and student body, STL fosters academic excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and strong connections with legal institutions worldwide.
