Gorden Trimble [Photo/fznews.com.cn]

In late spring, a gentle breeze drifts along the Minjiang River and into the leafy campus of Fujian Hwa Nan Women's College. Inside a classroom, 82-year-old Professor Gorden Trimble, known for his neatly combed white hair and signature Hawaiian shirts, begins his English lesson with a calm yet resonant voice.

On March 13, Trimble was honored as one of the "Touching Fujian 2025 Persons of the Year". His story reflects more than personal dedication, it spans four generations of a family committed to education and China-U.S. friendship.

That legacy dates back to the late 19th century when his grandaunt, Lydia Trimble, traveled from the United States to Fujian province to establish one of the region's first schools for women, pioneering modern female education in the area.

Born in 1944, Trimble grew up with deep ties to China. In 1989, he made his first trip to Fujian to trace his family roots. In 2005, after retiring in the United States, he and his wife moved to Fuzhou to teach English at the very college founded by his ancestors where he has remained ever since.

"For me, education has no borders, and neither does love," Trimble said. Even while in the United States, he continued teaching online, staying up late to prepare lessons and mentor students.

"My favorite Chinese story is 'The Foolish Old Man Who Removed the Mountains'," he said. "I hope to be like that road builder and ferryman, helping pave the way for more young people so they can step into society and move forward in life more smoothly."

Despite suffering from a severe eye condition, Trimble maintains high teaching standards. Under his guidance, many students have grown from shy beginners into confident speakers, winning top prizes in provincial English competitions.

Beyond language instruction, he introduced courses on women's leadership, encouraging students to be confident, independent and globally minded. "He made us believe that girls can embrace a bigger world," one graduate recalled.

Over the past two decades, Trimble and his family have donated more than 4 million yuan to support scholarships at the college. He has also strengthened educational exchanges between China and the United States, helping bring American teachers to China and sending Chinese students and scholars abroad.

In recognition of his contributions, Trimble was granted Fuzhou's first Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card based on his outstanding service in 2024. In 2025, he received the Chinese Government Friendship Award.

"China is my second hometown. Fuzhou is home," Trimble said. "I now have more friends in Fuzhou than in the United States and they are younger and full of energy."

His lifelong dedication stands as a vivid example of how education can transcend borders, fostering understanding and friendship across generations.