On June 21, 2025, the Royal Thai Consulate-General, Chicago, in collaboration with the Office of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Royal Thai Embassy, Washington D.C. (OHESDC), organized the event "Scientific Soft Power 2025: Applying Midwest Best Practices to Thailand" at the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Chicago.

The program was officially opened with welcoming remarks by Ms. Katanawadee Kalayanamit, Consul-General, followed by keynote presentations. Later, Professor Dr. Wisanu MeeYou, Deputy Director of Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI), presented the "SRI System Serving Thailand's Economic and Social Development." Subsequently, invited speakers, including Ms. Wirumpa Tanglai from the University of Illinois Chicago, who presented "Heart Up! Promoting Cardiovascular Health and Microbiome Integration for Lifelong Wellness"; Mr. Phiset Khueanthong, also from the University of Illinois Chicago, spoke on "Transforming Nursing Education through Virtual Reality/Metaverse Technology."

Following the lecture session, selected Thai students presented their academic research projects. The evening continued with a dinner reception, allowing participants to network and exchange ideas. A highlight of the program was a special lecture on Lanna Performing Arts delivered by Ms. Waewdao Sirisook, recipient of the 2024 Silpathorn Award in Performing Arts.

The event concluded with the announcement of the following award recipients:

FIRST PLACE AWARD Ms. Pattiya Phibulchinda, Northwestern University

Project: Thailand’s Hydrogen for the Sustainable Future

Leveraging Innovations from the US Midwest Hydrogen Hub

SECOND PLACE AWARD Asst. Prof. Theinchai Pasurakul, MD, University of Illinois Chicago

Project: Assessment of Artificial Intelligence on the Diagnosis and Management of Retinopathy of Prematurity by Ophthalmologists-in-Training, Illinois Chiacago USA

THIRD PLACE AWARD Ms. Boonyarak Chuanchit, Northern Illinois University

Project: Strategies for Enhancing Educational Institutions' Participation in Strengthening Water Quality in Thailand: A Case Study of the Kishwaukee River, Illinois

The Royal Thai Consulate-General congratulates all award recipients and extends appreciation to the committees, professors, students, and the Thai community for their contributions to this successful event. The consulate remains committed to supporting collaborative efforts and promoting meaningful initiatives for the Thai community in the Midwest.