CityUHK Foundation Dinner raises a record HK$49 million to support innovation and global initiatives
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Over 550 distinguished guests gathered for the City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) Foundation Dinner on 31 March, a spectacular evening that raised a record HK$49 million in support of the University’s innovative and global initiatives.
Proudly presented by BIEL Crystal, this year’s dinner adopted the theme “Innovation and Internationalisation”, underscoring CityUHK’s steadfast commitment to pioneering cutting-edge research and fostering global academic excellence. The evening also served as a heartfelt tribute to Foundation members, donors and partners for their unwavering generosity and support.
In his welcome address, Professor the Honourable Michael Ngai, CityUHK Council Chairman and Honorary Chairperson of the CityUHK Foundation, highlighted the University’s aspirations outlined in the CityUHK Strategic Plan 2025–2030.
“Your generosity is the cornerstone of CityUHK’s success and fuels our ambition to achieve new heights of excellence,” said Professor Ngai. He noted the University’s continuous rise in international rankings and its robust partnerships with leading institutions worldwide. “I invite all of you to continue to partner with CityUHK as we pursue these ambitious goals, working together to shape a brighter, better world.”
A highlight of the evening was an engaging chit-chat with Dr Yeung Kin-man, Honorary Chairperson of the CityUHK Foundation Board of Governors, and Professor Herman Hu Shao-ming, Co-Chairperson of the Foundation Board of Governors. The two guests reflected on their close ties and shared journey with CityUHK, and commended the University’s remarkable achievement in advancing global collaboration and its tangible social impact through innovation.
Professor Freddy Boey, President and University Distinguished Professor of CityUHK and Chairperson of the CityUHK Foundation, expressed deep gratitude to the major donors, including Dr Roy Chung Chi-ping of Bright Future Charitable Foundation, Dr Yeung Kin-man of Biel Crystal Holdings Limited, and Mr Zhang Bo of China Hongqiao Group Limited. He also extended a warm welcome to Huawei Technologies Company Limited, newly appointed as an Honorary Patron of the CityUHK Foundation.
The evening culminated with a much-anticipated singing performance led by President Boey, together with the CityUHK Band, bringing the dinner to its climax. CityUHK Foundation Board of Governors member and alumnus Dr Allen Shi Lop-tak opened the segment with a solo, followed by CityUHK Foundation Board of Governors member and alumna Ms Angela Yeung Kit-ming joining President Boey in a duet, after which President Boey delivered a mesmerising solo rendition of the classic Chinese song Blessing (祝福), dedicated to the generous sponsors and supporters in attendance. The captivating performance drew waves of heartfelt applause from the audience.
The dinner also featured a spirited charity auction and the presentation of the “Most Creative Glamour Awards” sponsored by BIEL Crystal, honouring guests whose attire most creatively reflected the theme of innovation and internationalisation. Adding to the evening’s vibrancy, CityUHK international students delighted the audience with a multicultural musical medley from the classic Broadway musical Mamma Mia!, uniquely interpreted through a harmonious blend of Chinese and Western instruments, and brought the memorable evening to a joyful close.
