Chinese Vice Premier Liu He addressed the recipients thanking them for their contributions to the continued development and prosperity of China.  Liu also said that the Chinese government would continue to encourage collaborations between Chinese and foreign academics and experts.  He added that there will continue to be a role for foreign experts and professionals to work and live in China.

Professor Crittenden has been active in China for many years, in both an academic and professional role.  He lectures widely at Chinese universities and serves on several editorial boards of academic publications that are based in China.  He has been involved in close academic exchanges and cooperative efforts with several Chinese universities, and hosts visiting scholars and students in the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems.