On July 13, 2019, Anaheim University established the Anaheim University Thelma Press Intercultural Institute. Thelma Press has contributed to intercultural relations, peace, and diplomacy for more than six decades through her roles as Co-founder of the Southern and Northern California Chapters of Sister Cities International, Co-founder of the Sister City relationship between San Bernardino, California, and Tachikawa, Japan, and former President of the San Diego-Yokohama Sister City Society. In 2018, she was recognized for contributing to promoting friendly relations and mutual understanding between Japan and the United States through the award of The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays, an award administered by The Decoration Bureau of the Office of the Prime Minister in the name of the Emperor of Japan. Over her lifetime, Dr. Press has received over 60 awards for her work in international relations, including the designation of Global Envoy, the highest honor of Sister Cities International.

Thelma Press’s vast intercultural experience, beginning as a student of Mother Teresa in Calcutta, India, helped give rise to her dedication to the promotion of peace and goodwill among all people, irrespective of faith, fortune, or nationality. She has been inspired by people she has met throughout her life, including Mahatma Gandhi, and has strived to inspire youth to form a global community and create a world of one people.

In honor of Thelma Press’s spirit of peace and goodwill, the Anaheim University Thelma Press Intercultural Institute is developing academic programs in Intercultural Relations. These programs are being designed to provide students with essential skills that will benefit them greatly. Intercultural communication skills will become increasingly essential in a world made more interconnected by the rapid advancement of AI. The institute is aiming to launch during the 2026 academic year.