An aerial lollipop performance by Amanda He (Dentistry '16) with dancers from Adedance Artistic & Aerial Productions.
The NUS Donor Appreciation Event 2024 was a night where the celebration of generosity took centre stage. The event, held on 19 September 2024 at the NUSS Kent Ridge Guild House, welcomed 166 donors who have chosen to make a lasting impact on the University’s future—each of whom has played a pivotal role in transforming the lives of NUS students and fostering impactful research.
The evening opened with a captivating aerial lollipop performance by NUS alumna Amanda He (Dentistry ’16), alongside dancers from Adedance Artistic & Aerial Productions. Their breathtaking display, which combined acrobatics with aerial artistry, set the tone for an evening of beauty, boldness, and celebration. Amanda’s graceful yet daring performance embodied the event's theme, “See the Possibility,” showcasing the power of imagination and limitless potential.
NUS President Prof Tan Eng Chye thanking guests in his opening address.
In his opening address, NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye (Science ’85) spoke warmly of the University’s gratitude for the support of its donors, acknowledging how their generosity has uplifted and transformed countless lives across the NUS community. “Your kindness creates ripples of progress and change across NUS... Each gift sows a seed, laying a foundation from which saplings grow, flourish, and reach for higher planes,” he shared.
Guests engaging in conversation with NUS President Prof Tan Eng Chye.
Prof Tan highlighted the contributions of several donors, including Mr Chris Feng (Computing ’05), President of Sea Limited, and Mr Albert Liu, CEO of Sino Suisse Capital. Mr Feng supports his alma mater both personally and through Sea Limited, while Mr Liu established a fund through Sino Suisse Capital to encourage more students to pursue social work, enhancing the support for Singapore’s vulnerable communities. Prof Tan also recognised individual philanthropists like Mrs Wong-Mah Jia Lan, whose generous gift now provides students with the educational opportunities she was once denied as a young woman.
Guests toast to an evening of joy and laughter, dedicated to supporting future generations.
At the dinner, guests were treated to a thoughtfully curated experience, including a special matcha-infused appetiser, Tuna Tataki, and a Ceremonial Uji Matcha and Whisk Set from Crafti, a homegrown brand founded by NUS alumnus Mr Elias Tiong (Law ’17). The evening was filled with meaningful conversations, laughter and the joy of connecting with like-minded individuals committed to supporting future generations and fostering positive change.
A particularly poignant moment came when the room fell silent for a video presentation featuring NUS alumnus Mr Ting Jun Heng (Arts and Social Sciences ’23). Having survived a traumatic accident in 2018, Mr Ting’s story of resilience, determination, and gratitude deeply moved the audience. He shared his arduous journey back to health and his eventual graduation in 2023 made possible by the generous support of NUS donors. His heartfelt speech and sincere thanks to the donors who enabled him to focus on his studies, without the constant worry of financial burden, resonated strongly with everyone present. As the video ended, the audience stood to applaud, many visibly moved by his words. Several donors approached him afterwards, offering personal encouragement and well wishes - a testament to the deep connections formed between the University’s benefactors and its students.
Members of the Alumni Student Advancement Committee (ASAC) offering their support to bursary recipient, Mr Ting Jun Heng (Arts and Social Sciences ’23). (From left) Mr Seah Cheng San, ASAC Chairman; Mr Chua Hung Meng (Business ’81); Mr Ting, Mr Ting's mother, Mr Wong Jin Kok (Engineering ’85), and Mr Yeo Keng Joon (Business ’85).
The NUS Donor Appreciation Event 2024 was not just a celebration - it was a gathering of friends, united by a shared purpose of creating a better future for all. As Prof Tan eloquently said, “Together, let us continue to see the possibility and shape a brighter future.” With the unwavering support of the NUS community, the future indeed looks bright for NUS and the many lives it touches.
