Held as part of the University’s 120th anniversary celebrations, the evening's celebration event paid tribute to our donors and the many lives their generosity continues to transform.

^{NUS President Prof Tan Eng Chye expressing his appreciation to donors who have given generously to various causes at the University.}

“Your generosity gave me peace of mind. It gave me time. It gave me space.”

With these quiet but powerful words, Mr Marcus Tang, a Year 3 Theatre Studies bursary recipient captivated the audience and reminded everyone why they were there.

On 31 October 2025, donors, students, faculty and friends of the National University of Singapore (NUS) gathered at the NUSS Kent Ridge Guild House for the NUS Giving Donor Appreciation Event 2025. Held as part of the University’s 120th anniversary celebrations, the evening paid tribute to our donors and the many lives their generosity continues to transform.

^{Our donors’ generosity creates ripples of impact for bursary recipients like Marcus, empowering them to achieve their academic aspirations with peace of mind.}

Raised in a single rented room shared with his entire family, Marcus grew up in an environment shaped by hardship and uncertainty. His mother battled depression and his younger brother fell into gambling debts. As the eldest child, Marcus shouldered both emotional and financial responsibilities.

For a long time, a university education seemed out of reach. That changed when Marcus received financial aid from NUS.

“The first gift your support gave me was peace of mind,” Marcus shared. “I no longer had to add to my family’s burden.”

With tuition and living expenses covered, Marcus could focus on his studies. He discovered a love for postmodern theatre, took on leadership roles in his residential hall and completed internships in media and the arts. Most meaningfully, he now has space of his own—both physically and mentally—to learn, reflect and grow.

Marcus is just one voice, but his message resonated with many in the room. Around him were other student recipients with stories of their own. Some were the first in their families to attend university. Others balanced their studies with caregiving duties or financial pressures. All of them were there because someone chose to believe in their potential.

^{NUS President Prof Tan Eng Chye engaging with donors at the event.}

The evening brought together more than 150 guests, including long-time donors such as Ms Nancy Tan, whose sustained gifts have supported generations of students. New partners including ValueMax and Total Facility Engineering also joined the celebration, reflecting a growing community of individuals who believe in the NUS mission.

The atmosphere was one of reflection and renewal. Conversations flowed easily across tables as guests connected with student recipients, fellow donors and NUS staff.

In his address, NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye (Science ’85) expressed his appreciation to donors for shaping not only individual futures but also the University’s progress over the years.

“Our donors want a difference, see a difference and make a difference,” he said. “You empower our students to be fully present in labs, clinics, studios and classrooms.”

Prof Tan also shared how philanthropic support enables the University to uplift lives and advance knowledge across disciplines. Whether through student bursaries and scholarships, professorships or gifts towards research, Prof Tan emphasised that every contribution moves us to do good together—building a stronger and more cohesive society.

The evening closed with a collaborative performance by the Eusoff Dance Group and Ms Calista Liaw (Music ’24), an alumna of the NUS Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music. The blend of Chinese dance and modern movement was a fitting tribute to the night’s spirit — where heritage meets possibility.

The conversations continued as guests lingered after the programme for the evening ended. Donors spoke with students, alumni reconnected with mentors and stories were exchanged over desserts.

The impact of the evening was not measured in applause, but in the sense of connection. It was a reminder that giving is never a solitary act. It is a collaboration, a commitment, and a belief in futures not yet written.

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