Teh-Kuang Chang

Dr. Teh-Kuang Chang, 98, distinguished Emeritus Professor of Political Science at Ball State University, departed this world on January 15th, 2024 surrounded by family at Community North Hospital, Indianapolis. His life embodied a remarkable journey of resilience, intellect, and an unwavering commitment to education, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. He carried out his life following the mottoes of ‘perseverance’ and ‘world peace and human harmony’. Affectionately known as Ted, Dr. Chang was born in the small farming community of Changting County, Fujian Province, China, in 1925. His academic prowess at National Amoy University (Xiamen) and National Taiwan University (Taipei) led him to the U.S. in 1956, where he earned an M.A. from the University of Washington (Seattle) and a Ph.D. from American University (Washington, DC). In 1966, Dr. Chang became a founding professor in the Department of Political Science at Ball State University, dedicating 54 years to the institution before retiring in 2020. His research focused on international relations in Asia, Sino-American diplomatic relations, democratization and constitutional development in China, Mongolia, and Tuva. He further helped expand the Department and University's academic horizons by pioneering programs in International Studies, Latin American Studies, African Studies, and Asian Studies; and he was an enthusiastic faculty sponsor of the University’s Model United Nations program. Dr. Chang received numerous fellowships, honors, and grants, including recognition as a Fulbright Professor, and a "Fifty Years of Excellence in Teaching" and Person of the Year awards from Ball State University. He also received a World Congress tribute by the International Political Science Association (IPSA) at the 40th Anniversary of the establishment of the Research Committee on Asian and Pacific Studies, which he founded and chaired. Dr. Chang's impact reached the highest echelons of decision-making, serving as an advisor to Presidents and world leaders. Invited by the White House, he provided counsel to President Ronald Reagan during the Cold War, advocating for peaceful strategies to ease tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. His wise counsel was sought by Presidents and leaders of the Republic of China as Taiwan found its way to becoming a vibrant democracy. In Indiana, he also worked closely with then-Governors Otis Bowen and Bob Orr to develop a sister-state relationship between Indiana and Taiwan, and he helped facilitate exchanges between Muncie and Changhua County in Taiwan. In civic service, Dr. Chang chaired the Education Committee of the Human Rights Commission in Muncie, Indiana. He was a recognized Honorary Ambassador for Goodwill of the State of Indiana and for the City of Muncie. Dr. Teh-Kuang Chang was preceded in death by his wife, Grace Chang, and is survived by his children, Angelo (Darlene), Angelin, Angelina (Ronald), Angel, and grandchildren, Sabrina, Dylan, Veronica, and Verity. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 pm Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Elm Ridge Funeral Home, 4600 West Kilgore Avenue, Muncie, Indiana 47303. Burial will follow in Elm Ridge Memorial Park. Family and friends may call from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm Saturday at Elm Ridge Funeral Home. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at: [email protected].