International Programs at the University of Iowa is pleased to announce that Duong (Jun) Le, a recent graduate with a Bachelor of Music in piano performance, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Peace, Charlie One World Scholarship.
Originally from Hanoi, Vietnam, Le will continue her studies at Iowa this fall, pursuing a Master of Arts in piano pedagogy. Passionate about sharing music as a tool for connection and healing, Le believes in the power of the arts to transcend borders and bring people together.
“I’ve always had this passion to share the joy I found in music,” she said. “I genuinely believe that music is an international language that connects people no matter where you are from or what you are studying.”
“Music can heal people on so many levels. It can also be the global voice for those who were silenced.”
Le explored this concept in depth during her honors project at Iowa, where she examined how cultural differences influence musical preference and expectation—focusing on Quan Họ, a traditional Vietnamese folk genre known for its antiphonal character. The research was inspired by her experience teaching piano to students from diverse cultural backgrounds.
“I wanted to find direct correlations between cultural differences and musical expectancy,” she explained. “The more I learn, the more I see the similarities and differences, and all that knowledge has helped strengthen the friendships and connections I have with people I care about.”
Looking ahead to her future as a music educator, Le is committed to guiding students toward not just technical skill, but a deeper appreciation for the unifying power of music.
“Music can heal people on so many levels,” she said. “It can also be the global voice for those who were silenced.”
For fellow students striving to make a global impact, Le shared an encouraging message: “I hope that no matter what you are doing, or how far you are on your journey, please know that you have ALREADY made a positive impact by taking that first action.”
Le also expressed heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Charles W. Day, who made this opportunity possible. “This generous support will allow me to focus on my studies in piano performance,” she said. “I really appreciate them for this incredible opportunity.”
Funding for the Peace, Charlie One World Scholarship is made possible by the generosity of UI alumnus Dr. Charles W. Day (BA ‘60, MA 62’, PhD 64), a former clinical psychologist and consultant who was raised in Iowa and passed away in 2021. His passing marked the end of a remarkable life dedicated to education, philanthropy, and the promotion of international dialogue. Dr. Day's commitment to these ideals was the driving force behind the creation of the Peace, Charlie One World Scholarship, which since 2002, has supported over 30 international students, assisting them with the financial means to pursue studies and research opportunities here in the United States.
The purpose of the scholarship is to promote world peace, understanding, compassion, and harmony among different ethnic and cultural groups through higher education. Le’s commitment to intercultural connection and musical education embodies the values of the Peace, Charlie One World Scholarship—making her a deserving recipient of this meaningful award.
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International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement. IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.