Turkish Students and Researchers in the US Meet at the Diyanet Center of America
📍 American Religious Affairs Center | Saturday, October 25, 2025
Turkish students pursuing master's and doctoral degrees in the US and researchers gathered at the "Turkish Student and Researchers Meeting," hosted by the Diyanet Center of America. Participants from various US cities enjoyed a traditional Turkish breakfast, savoring the beloved flavors of their homeland, and engaging in warm and friendly conversation. The event was held in an atmosphere that prioritized cultural exchange as well as academic exchange.
At the opening of the program, Associate Professor Dr. Fatih Kanca, President of the Diyanet Center of America and Washington Religious Services Counselor, delivered a welcoming speech. In his speech, Kanca emphasized that the Diyanet Center of America is a home of knowledge and brotherhood for Turkish students living in the US. He emphasized the importance of Turkish young people studying in the US coming together to develop joint projects, act in solidarity, and implement scientific and cultural activities together at this center.
“"As the Diyanet Center of America, we will continue to meet more frequently with Turkish students and researchers in the United States, support them culturally and spiritually, and always keep the doors of this center open to them. This is your home," he concluded.
Washington Education Counselor Prof. Dr. Fatih Savaşan also spoke about the support provided by the Turkish Ministry of National Education for students studying abroad. In addition to the counseling, guidance, and financial support provided to MEB scholarship recipients, he emphasized that students are not alone and that Türkiye always supports them with all its resources. He also emphasized the importance of students communicating more with one another and sharing their experiences.
The event was attended by numerous graduate students pursuing their studies in the DMV region, TÜBİTAK scholarship holders, representatives from the Ministry of National Education, and academics conducting research at various universities. Participants shared their fields, research topics, and educational experiences, providing an opportunity to get to know each other and experiencing the excitement of sharing common academic and cultural grounds. They discussed a wide range of topics, including academic challenges, scholarship and funding opportunities, advisor-student relationships, and cultural representation. The event included a tour of the Diyanet Center of America's complex, information about the center's facilities, and a viewing of the DCA promotional film.
In the afternoon, participants who wished attended the "DCA Book Talks" session, focusing on the book "Islamophobia: The Challenge of Pluralism in the 21st Century," by Prof. John L. Esposito. This intellectual event, hosted online by Prof. Esposito from Georgetown University, explored the issues of Islamophobia and pluralism in depth.
The program ended with a commemorative photo taken between the participants.