NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

Table of contents President’s Message

2

Director’s Message

4

AlumSTATS 2020

8

Connecting with You In-Person

18

Connecting with You Physically and Virtually

21

Looking into our core

Connecting with You in the 41 New Normal Annual Report 2020 Year in Review

44

Alumni Pillars

46

Table of contents President’s Message

2

Director’s Message

4

AlumSTATS 2020

8

Connecting with You In-Person

18

Connecting with You Physically and Virtually

21

Connecting with You in the New Normal

41

Year in Review

44

Alumni Pillars

46

President’s Message Dear fellow alumni and friends, 2020 will be painfully etched in our memory as the year the world suffered collectively under a pandemic.

On top of political instabilities and global trade tensions, the pandemic caused unprecedented economic disruptions and brought life, as we know it, to a standstill.

It is against this challenging backdrop that NUS celebrated our 115th anniversary.

At the onset of COVID-19, we took broad and decisive actions to complement the transformation journey that we have embarked on in the past decade. We continue to offer a top quality transformative education; undertake robust research that improves lives and creates better understanding; and innovate for a better Singapore, and a better world – toward our vision of a leading global university shaping the future.

Leveraging new digital technologies, we continue to tear down subject silos. One of our major initiatives, the College of Humanities and Sciences (CHS) will put emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to develop competencies across fields and equip them with relevant skills to meet employers’ needs in the new normal.

Interdisciplinary studies have been in the University’s DNA over the last 20 years and right now NUS is taking this approach to another level, continuously innovating our offerings to buttress our standing as a worldclass university. With a focus on helping students and alumni find opportunities to upskill or reskill even after graduation, we are well poised to tackle opportunities and challenges arising from Industry 4.0.

Despite these difficult times, we remained conscious that we must continue to support the less able and underprivileged. I am heartened that even in trying times, the NUS Day of Service continues to have the entire NUS family coming together and working alongside one another (while being safely distanced!) to help those less fortunate among us, as well as to care for our environment.

While “It takes a village to raise a child”, “it takes a University to support the alumni” – thank you, once again, to our alumni leaders and volunteers who contribute selflessly towards making NUS a stronger and more cohesive community. I look forward to working closely with our alumni and growing as #OneNUS! Professor Tan Eng Chye Science ’85 | NUS President

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

At the onset of COVID-19, we took broad and decisive actions to complement the transformation journey that we have embarked on in the past decade. We continue to offer a top quality transformative education; undertake robust research that improves lives and creates better understanding; and innovate for a better Singapore, and a better world – toward our vision of a leading global university shaping the future.

Professor Tan Eng Chye | Science ’85

5

Director’s Message Dear fellow alumni and friends, It would be an understatement to say that 2020 was a year like no other.

We began the new year invigorated and brimming with excitement for the new decade ahead. 2020 also marked NUS’ 115th Anniversary. The announcement of the Circuit Breaker brought an immediate pause to our daily lives, bringing about unprecedented challenges economically and socially. In the face of adversity, I am encouraged by the selfless efforts of many alumni who stepped up and found ways to serve the community. It is true that in times of crises, heroes emerge.

As the pandemic forced a “new normal” upon all of us, my colleagues and I had to relook how to continue staying engaged with the alumni community. Quickly pivoting all our programmes to a virtual format allowed us to stay engaged as well as extend beyond our Little Red Dot. At the biennial Alumni Leaders Forum, over 100 alumni leaders came together to discuss and explore how to shape Alumni Relations for the decade ahead.

NUS President’s keynote address echoed the need for alumni to unite anew as a social compact amidst such trying times. We also officially launched AlumAPP to put a wealth of alumni-related information and offerings into the palm of your hand.

Working tirelessly, we did not abandon our highly anticipated signature homecomings and events.

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

Undaunted, we found opportunities to serve, give back, reconnect with old friends and make new connections.

The pandemic has reminded us of the importance of continually deepening and strengthening bonds so that together, we can weather whatever storm that comes our way.

The announcement of Phase 2 and relaxation of safe management measures brought a positive note in the latter part of the year as we welcomed alumni back to Shaw Foundation Alumni House for the inaugural Peruvian Film Festival, the 9th China Film Festival and the 8th Canadian Film Festival. We greatly appreciate and thank the Embassy of the Republic of Peru, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China and the High Commission of Canada for continuing to share their unique languages, cultures and values through films.

Even as we “Zoom-ed” past a turbulent 2020, I am hopeful and optimistic for what 2021 will bring. Together with my colleagues at NUS Alumni Relations, we look forward to your continued support and participation as we work to deepen and strengthen our bonds with you.

Please continue to keep well, stay safe, stay healthy and stay strong.

Mr Bernard Toh Architecture ’84 | Director, NUS Alumni Relations

Undaunted, we found opportunities to serve, give back, reconnect with old friends and make new connections. The pandemic has reminded us of the importance of continually deepening and strengthening bonds so that together, we can weather whatever storm that comes our way... ...I am hopeful and optimistic for what 2021 will bring. Together with my colleagues at NUS Alumni Relations, we look forward to your continued support and participation as we work to deepen and strengthen our bonds with you.

Mr Bernard Toh | Architecture ’84

7

NUS Alumni Student Advancement Committee The Alumni Student Advancement Committee (ASAC) was established by the NUS Alumni Advisory Board to spearhead the NUS Alumni Bursary Fund Campaign. The Committee is led by NUS alumni to nurture alumni-led initiatives to raise funds to support bursaries for deserving NUS students.

Since its inception, the Committee has raised a total of $22,534,815.

1

2

3

4

5

ASAC CHAIRMAN : (3) Mr Seah Cheng San | Engineering ’82 MEMBERS : (1) Mr Soh Yi Da | Arts and Social Sciences ‘14 (2) Mr Chua Hung Meng | Business ‘81 (4) Mr Wong Jin Kok | Engineering ‘85 (6) Mr Yeo Keng Joon | Business ‘85 EX-OFFICIO : (5) Mr Bernard Toh | Architecture ’84 , Director, NUS Alumni Relations

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

6

NUS Alumni Advisory Board The NUS Alumni Advisory Board (AAB) was established in 2006 and provides strategic guidance and counsel on all alumni-related matters, including collaborating with NUS senior management to build and enhance relationships with alumni and friends of the University.

FROM LEFT (SITTING) CHAIRMAN : Professor Tan Eng Chye | Science ‘85, NUS President MEMBERS : Ms Janet Ang Guat Har | Business ‘82

Mr Edward D’Silva | Architecture ‘75 Ms Goh Yiping | Design and Environment ‘05 FROM LEFT (STANDING) MEMBERS : Dr James Geng Jing | Public Policy ‘11

Mr Ho Jun Yi | Law and Public Policy ‘11 Mr Jeremy Ee Jian Wen | Engineering ‘05

FROM RIGHT (SITTING) CO-CHAIRMAN : Mr Johnny Tan Khoon Hui | Science ‘82 MEMBERS : Dr Intan Azura Mokhtar | Public Policy ‘08

Mr Seah Cheng San | Engineering ‘82 Mr Edward Stanley Tay Wey Kok | Law ‘92 FROM RIGHT (STANDING) EXECUTIVE SECRETARY : Mr Bernard Toh | Architecture ‘84, Director, NUS Alumni Relations MEMBERS : Mr Ow Tai Zhi | Business ‘11 Mr Benjamin Tan Keng Sing | Business ‘00

9

AlumSTATS NUS OAR ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Population and Demographics Alumni Population 2020

321,921

2019

2018

311,600

300,000

Demographics by Age Age segments

Young Alumni (Below 40 years)

Prime Alumni (40 to below 60 years)

Senior Alumni (60 years and above)

46%

40%

14%

145,764

128,072

44,320

Figures exclude deceased and alumni who are unidentifiable

11

Distribution by Faculty Duke-NUS Medical School

546

Faculty of Science

49,751 NUS Graduate School

969

Singapore – MIT Alliance

812

Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

62,768 Institute of Systems Science

6,383 Risk Management Institute

1,181

Temasek Defence Systems Institute

784

Faculty of Dentistry

2,494 Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy

3,312

Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health

464

The Logistics Institute – Asia Pacific

209

Faculty of Engineering

65,841 Multi Disciplinary Programme

971

School of Computing

16,797 Yale-NUS College

636

Faculty of Law

12,353 NUS Business School

39,794 School of Design and Environment

16,689 Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine

19,230

Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music

685

TOTAL : 302,669 Correct as at February 2021

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

Volunteerism and Lifelong Learning

2,797

80

4,715

Alumni Volunteers

Volunteerism Programmes

Beneficiaries

Ways our alumni volunteers contribute Mentoring

Offering job/ internship opportunities

Lifelong Learning scale.nus.edu.sg

2,335 Alumni

Giving talks/ lectures

Organising reunions and alumni gatherings

Conducting admission interviews

Participating in community service

Taken up a course with School of Continuing and Lifelong Education (SCALE) (out of around 8,000 adult learners)

13

Hybridisation of Events Physical Events (Local)

20 Total Number of

Physical Events (Overseas)

4 Online Events

27

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

Total Number of

Events

Event Days

51

57

Physical Attendees

Signature Events

(Local)

Bukit Timah Homecoming 1st Saturday of July

2,257 Total Number of

Attendees

8,314

Kent Ridge Alumni Family Day 3rd Saturday of August

Physical Attendees (Overseas)

NUS Day of Service 1st Saturday of September

170

U@live October

Online Attendees

5,887

New Events Peruvian Film Festival October nus.edu.sg/alumnet/events

15

Alumni Home – SFAH Facilities

159

Bookings

6,155 Visitors

1 Correct as of 26 February 2021

Food and Beverage Outlets • The University Club by Privé Grill • Reedz Café 2

Complimentary Amenities

4

• Hot-desking spaces • Usage of computers and printer • Meeting and activity rooms 5

nus.edu.sg/alumnet/alumnihouse

Venues Available for Hire

1 Self-service temperature screening 2 Lift Concourse 3 Concourse and Auditorium 4 Seminar Rooms 3

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

5 Keep safe stickers

• 298-seater Auditorium • The Waterway • Concourse • Benefactors’ Foyer • 5 seminar rooms • 1 meeting room nus.edu.sg/alumnet/alumnihouse/venue

Communications

nus.edu.sg/alumnet/publications

The AlumNUS (Quarterly magazine)

42,075 Print magazines

Average circulation

133,886 E-magazines

The AlumNUS clinched the following:

nus.edu.sg/alumnet/TheAlumNUS

AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Magazines, Journals and Tabloids - Print

AlumNEWS

(Monthly e-Newsletter) Average circulation

nus.edu.sg/alumnet/publications

Social Media and Network NUS Alumni

AlumNET nus.edu.sg/alumnet

Update particulars and subscription preferences at alumnet-login.nus.edu.sg NUS Lifelong Email Account required

133,372

NUS Alumni

NUS_Alumni WhatsApp Subscription +65 8698 5131 Stay connected with us to receive the latest alumni-related news and events 17

AlumAPP, Awards and Bursaries AlumAPP Launched on 18 July 2020 at NUS Alumni Leaders Forum (ALF) 2020 Access a directory of alumni-related information at your fingertips: • Log in using your NUS Lifelong Email Account • Join Alumni Events • Enjoy exclusive discounts and privileges • Stay connected with fellow alumni and NUS

AlumNUS Card The digital AlumNUS Card launched in 2019 replaces the physical card, and is available to all NUS alumni. Now part of AlumAPP, the card allows alumni to enjoy a host of benefits and privileges on campus, island-wide and online.

43

AlumNUS Card Merchants Correct as of 17 December 2020

Categories

App Store

• Health and Beauty

• Fashion and Retail

• Lifestyle

• Food and Beverage

• Privileges on Campus

Google Play

Download AlumApp today!

18

• Education

NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

nus.edu.sg/alumnet/alumnuscard

Awards and Bursaries The NUS Alumni Credit Cards allow alumni to give back to the University and support their juniors with no hassle. Each time alumni use their NUS Alumni Credit Cards, the banks – DBS and Standard Chartered – will make a contribution to support students through awards and bursaries.

Apply for your NUS Alumni Credit Card and make a contribution today!

Supported students, through

36 AWARDS

20

16

NUS Alumni Bursary Awards

NUS Alumni Overseas Colleges Awards

$45,000

$10,000 nus.edu.sg/alumnet/awards_bursaries

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were no recipients for the Student Exchange Awards.

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Connecting with You In-Person NUS OAR ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Pre-COVID-19 Appreciation

January 31

Chinese New Year Appreciation Dinner An annual appreciation dinner hosted by NUS President and NUS Alumni Relations to thank alumni leaders, volunteers, partners, colleagues and students for their support and contributions towards the University’s efforts to engage alumni. This was the last in-person event held before events were suspended from March 2020 due to the Circuit Breaker.

21

Pre-COVID-19 Lifelong Learning

Future-ready Workshops Future-ready Workshops is a series of workshops that aims to support alumni in their career development amidst a rapidly changing world. This event was held before the announcement of the Circuit Breaker.

January 14

Collaboration – The New Buzzword!

MR JASBIR SINGH Then-Head of Learning and Development, NUS Centre for Future-ready Graduates 22

NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

Connecting with You Physically and Virtually NUS OAR ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Leaders in Times of Crises Resilience and Growth The COVID-19 pandemic posed an unprecendented challenge to the world, Singapore and our newest alumni, the Class of 2020 who faced considerable uncertainties in entering the job market.

To meet the challenges brought about by the pandemic, NUS launched the Resilience and Growth Initiative (R&G). This bold initiative offered more than 1,000 exciting development opportunities during this uncertain time, and allowed our graduating cohort to grow and future proof themselves so that they would be ready to seize new opportunities once the economy recovers.

115 ground-up projects to shape a better post-COVID future Under the R&G umbrella, NUS called for proposals to champion 115 innovative projects, in a nod to the 115th anniversary of the University’s founding. The Innovation Challenge is a ground-up initiative for recent graduates, especially the graduating class of 2020.

The University has set aside $6 million to support their ideas and proposals to help shape a better future for humankind ­– to make our people, our society and the world better.

Participating Faculties, Schools, Departments: NUS Office of Human Resources nus.edu.sg/careers/R&G.html NUS Centre for Future-ready Graduates nus.edu.sg/cfg/rg NUS School of Continuing and Lifelong Education scale.nus.edu.sg/nus-resiliencegrowth-2020 NUS Enterprise enterprise.nus.edu.sg/event/resilienceand-growth-innovation-challenge/ R&G Innovation Challenge nus.edu.sg/cfg/rg/InnovChallenge

List of winning teams nus.edu.sg/cfg/rg/InnovChallenge/winners

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

COVID-19 Heroes COVID-19 has disrupted our world in a myriad of ways, yet the NUS spirit of giving powers through our alumni community. While some are working tirelessly at the frontlines, others have found different ways to step up and serve the community.

Kudos to fellow alumni who make us so proud with their selfless contributions in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you to all our alumni heroes!

MR JOHANN ANNUAR | Engineering ’02

Started an initiative via Engineering Good, a Singaporebased non-profit organisation, to fix old laptops for students from low-income households who may not have access to working laptops for their HomeBased Learning.

DR JUDY SNG | Science ’01

DR ZHOU LIHAN | Science ’07 DR ZOU RUIYANG | Singapore-MIT Alliance ’15

Scaling up of the production of a diagnostic test kit used in Singapore and across the world.

MR LOH CHI JIE | Engineering ’17 MS DAPHNE TING | Engineering ’16

Going door to door in the evenings to distribute Buka Puasa meals to healthcare workers and seniors in her community.

Converting their 3D printing capacity to produce face shields for frontline workers and donating 40,000 3D printed ear savers.

MS JANICE KOH | Arts and Social Sciences ’95 MS PAM OEI | Design and Environment ’97

PROFESSOR OOI ENG EONG | Medicine ’98

Pasar Glamour co-founders who raised $100,000 to help freelancers in the performing arts cope with job and income losses due to COVID-19.

Pushing new frontiers in vaccines and treatments both locally and internationally.

And many others!

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Lifelong Learning Future-ready Workshops [Online] Future-ready Workshops is a series of workshops that aims to support alumni in their career development amidst a rapidly changing world.

July 14

October 13

Tips to Being a High-Performing Remote Employee

Virtual Networking: Building Bridges to Opportunities

MR JASBIR SINGH

MS CAMILLA TAM

Then-Head of Learning and Development, NUS Centre for Future-ready Graduates

Career Advisor and Learning and Development Manager, NUS Centre for Future-ready Graduates

Held in partnership with the NUS Centre for Futureready Graduates, the first online Future-ready Workshops was well-received by alumni. Mr Jasbir Singh walked attendees through tips for setting up a home workstation, productivity hacks to help create a positive work-from-home experience, and how to continue building relationships with co-workers despite working remotely in an interactive and engaging session.

Ms Camilla Tam stressed the importance of networking and making professional connections in unlocking hidden career opportunities. She took attendees through how to create a plan for networking and strategies for strengthening relationships with colleagues while working from home. Attendees left the online workshop armed with the knowledge of how to make a great impression on future employers by building a suitable online brand for themselves.

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

Tech Talk [Online] The Fourth Industrial Revolution is changing how we live, work, and communicate - with technologies that blur the lines between physical, digital and biological spheres. The Tech Talk series explores some of these emerging technologies and how they impact or disrupt our lives.

May 19

November 17

How AI is Changing Cybersecurity

The Hype Versus Reality of the Impact of FinTech on Law

MS ANGELA HUANG | Science ’85 Principal Lecturer and Consultant, Digital Strategy and Leadership Practice, Institute of Systems Science, NUS

Ms Angela Huang gave an overview of AI and the security of Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems, potential AI-powered attacks, and how AI is used in managing cybersecurity. Attendees gained insights into various real-world examples that were shared in Ms Huang’s presentation.

August 18

Winning in a World of Digital Banking and Digital Payments MS HUONG TRAN | Business ’07 Executive Director of Payments and Platforms, DBS Consumer Banking Group

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR KEITH CARTER NUS School of Computing; Co-Director, CRYSTAL Centre, Director, NUS FinTech Lab

MR NG SEY MING | Law ’99 Deputy Head, Banking and Finance, Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP

In this session, Associate Professor Keith Carter and Mr Ng Sey Ming discussed the impact of FinTech in the legal profession. Besides getting a better understanding of the challenges and disruptions presented by digitalisation, attendees gained insights on how FinTech and blockchains could be leveraged to improve standard functions and increase efficiency.

In this fast-changing digital landscape, and especially with the changes brought about by COVID-19, scaling up digital capabilities has become a matter of survival.

In this talk, Ms Huong Tran used three case studies – smart buddy innovation, DBS Paylah!, and open banking – to demonstrate how DBS has leveraged on technologies to boost customer engagement and stay at the forefront of the banking industry.

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Lunch Dialogues [Online] Lunch Dialogues is a talk series organised by NUS Alumni Relations and NUSS. Designed to engage younger NUS alumni professionals in executive and middle management positions, the series creates a platform for the exchange of ideas among alumni, led by experts in their respective fields of industry.

Meant to be casual and interactive, accompanied by forum-style discussions to inspire younger alumni to be successful leaders of the future.

September 18

From Entrepreneurship to Public Service Speaker:

MR EDWARD CHIA | Arts and Social Sciences ’09 Moderator:

MR SOH YI DA | Arts and Social Sciences ’14 In this session, Mr Edward Chia shared stories of his journey since he was an undergraduate – with his keen eye on the arts, interest in engineering social change, fascination with experimentation to fix broken systems – all the way to his latest role as a Member of Parliament.

Moderated by Mr Soh Yi Da, Mr Chia patiently answered questions from the attendees.

Catch up on all our webinars at alumnet.events/webinars

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

ORGANISED BY

Thought Leadership U@live [Online] The revamped U@live features a panel of subject matter experts who are able to contribute diverse views and perspectives on a particular topic of global significance, as well as an essay competition that is open to all alumni and students of NUS, and students at institutions of higher learning in Singapore. The student winner of the essay competition will form part of the panel.

October 30

Climate Change – Are Tomorrow’s Needs more Important than Today’s Reality?

Panellists:

MS GRACE FU | Business ’85 Minister for Sustainability and the Environment

MR ABHAS JHA Practice Manager, World Bank Group

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR LEONG CHING | Arts and Social Sciences ’92 NUS Dean of Students

MS FENG YUAN Student Winner of Essay Competition

In November 2019, more than 11,000 scientists from around the world issued a widely reported clarion call: climate change was an emergency that would lead to “untold human suffering” if no consequential action was taken. Just a few months later, the world found itself in the throes of another emergency, as the COVID-19 pandemic took hold. The severity of the pandemic and the economic havoc it wreaked understandably shifted the world’s attention away from climate change.

This shift is emblematic of the wicked problem facing the world, which must seemingly choose between dealing with tomorrow’s needs and today’s realities – a choice that inspired 2020’s U@live session, which was held virtually on 30 October.

Some 150 alumni tuned in to the session, which was moderated by Mr Viswa Sadasivan and featured Ms Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment; Mr Abhas Jha, Practice Manager of Urban and Disaster Risk Management at the World Bank; and Associate Professor Leong Ching, Dean of Students at NUS. The panel also featured U@live essay competition winner Ms Feng Yuan (see sidebar).

Moderator:

MR VISWA SADASIVAN | Arts and Social Sciences ’83 Former Nominated Member of Parliament, U@live Moderator and Chairman

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WoW: In Conversation [Online] To celebrate women and their achievements, NUS Alumni Relations, together with the NUS Alumni Advisory Board, presented WoW: In Conversation, featuring a panel of distinguished NUS alumnae who share their experiences, achievements, and hopes with other alumni, students, and friends. This event, originally planned as a physical event in March to commemorate International Women’s Day, was held virtually on 24 June.

June 24

Women Leading in Times of Crisis Opening Address:

MDM HALIMAH YACOB | Law ’78 President of Singapore, NUS Chancellor Panellists:

MS CHEW GEK KIM | Law ’84 Executive Chairman, The Straits Trading Company; Member, NUS Board of Trustees

MS JUNIE FOO | Arts and Social Sciences ’90 Group Executive Director, Methodist Welfare Services Moderator:

DR INTAN AZURA MOKHTAR | Public Policy ’08 Member, NUS Alumni Advisory Board

Originally planned to coincide with International Women’s Day in March, WoW: In Conversation moved online due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The brainchild of Dr Intan Azura Mokhtar, WoW: In Conversation gives female alumni a platform to distinguish themselves and contribute back to NUS, while creating opportunities for current students and alumni to interact with, and be inspired by established female alumni.

Singapore’s President and NUS Chancellor, Madam Halimah Yacob — who is the Republic’s first female Head of State — opened the event with a speech that reminded attendees how both women and men have a role to play in shaping a gender-equal world, and that gender parity is still very much a work in progress. She noted NUS’ commitment to nurture successful women leaders, and encouraged more female alumnae to step up and take the lead.

Panellists candidly shared their own experiences starting out in their careers, and brought up various issues such as the impact of COVID-19 on businesses and how to make effective decisions.

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

After the session, the panellists took on more questions via e-mail:

What advice would you give your younger self about

successful career. Apart from family support, organisations

charting career progress and areas you wish you

that intentionally groom talent, provide flexi-work

focused more? What can companies do to support the

arrangements, or are more accommodating can help on

development of younger staff?

this front. There will be times where a woman has to spend

MS CHEW : I was very lucky, in that I was in the right place at the right time. I learnt about corporate finance when it was nascent in Singapore’s economic development. I think that young people today should learn about developments in the world around us, particularly in science.

more time at work because of her job requirements but she must also be disciplined to take a step back when the family requires attention. Another important point is to share caregiving duties with the spouse. The woman does not always have to ferry the children to classes or take them to the doctor.

They should learn to understand how finance, politics, and technology work and how they are changing our lives. We

Leading a company is a highly stressful endeavour –

should also be mindful of the fast-changing geopolitical

what do you do to relax, and to remain energised and

environment that we live in.

focused throughout the day?

Companies should invest in training, and the reality is most

MS CHEW : The truth is I do not remain energised and

companies do. The challenge for companies is how to

focused throughout the day! The idea of a CEO who is

ensure that the training is effective, and to set up structures

never tired and stays energetic 24/7, 365 days a year is

whereby there is good feedback between subordinate and

nonsense. We all need to recharge, and I do so by walking,

supervisor so that one can learn both formally and informally.

reading, meeting up with friends, attending plays and concerts (before the circuit breaker), and exercising.

Do you have any advice for women who want to grow both their family and career? What should women do to ensure they can rise in the workforce but not sacrifice time with their family?

MS FOO : When I know I am getting too stressed, I will hit the pause button. I paint and listen to music. Be still and reflect.

MS FOO : As Chair of BoardAgender, I remember that we collaborated with the Tripartite Alliance forFair and Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP) a number of years back and interviewed 25 successful women. We found that organisations can enable women to carve out a

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NUS Alumni Leaders Forum [Online] July 18

Alumni Relations in the Age of Disruption Fortuitously themed “Alumni Relations in the Age of Disruption”, NUS Alumni Leaders Forum (ALF) was held on 18 July and saw over 100 alumni leaders come together virtually to discuss and explore how to shape alumni relations for the decade ahead.

Discussions centred around three key areas – Alumni Relations, Disruptions in Technology, and Lifelong Learning. Attendees had breakout discussions on issues such as succession planning practices, the needs of NUS alumni, digital transformation during and beyond COVID-19, and lifelong learning goals.

Overall, it was a morning of fruitful and meaningful conversations. Just before the closing plenary, NUS Senior Deputy President and Provost Professor Ho Teck Hua (Engineering ’85) launched the new AlumAPP – a mobile application to help the NUS alumni community remain engaged, connected, and informed.

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

Wellness Health and Wellness [Online] Health and Wellness is a series of talks by medical specialists to help alumni better understand common medical conditions, unravel medical jargon and debunk myths behind seemingly complicated diseases. The two sessions in 2020 were organised in partnership with Farrer Park Hospital.

July 23

October 22

Understanding and Managing Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Dietary Practice and Your Gut – Keeping GI Symptoms Away

DR PAUL MOK | Medicine ’91

DR LOH POH YEN | Medicine ’07

Senior Consultant and Medical Director, My ENT Specialist Clinic, Farrer Park Hospital

Specialist in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine, Farrer Park Hospital, Gutcare Digestive.Liver.Endoscopy Associates

Dr Paul Mok delivered an informative talk on Obstructive Sleep Apnea – what it is and how to manage it. Addressing inquiries and concerns, attendees were better able to understand the main causes and possible treatments and solutions to resolve Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

Dr Loh Poh Yen answered questions about common gastrointestinal (GI) problems such as abdominal bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, and flatulence. He also shared tips on how to observe good dietary habits, and on making the right dietary changes to keep GI symptoms at bay.

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Service September 6 The annual NUS Day of Service (DOS) takes place on the first Saturday of September every year. Due to the ongoing pandemic, this year’s efforts took on a greater meaning as the alumni community came together and reflected on how they could each lend a helping hand to those in need beyond 5 September.

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

Beneficiaries

3,700

5,500

6,130

5,000

4,500

Volunteers

1,368

2,411

2,050

2,000

1,400

32

54

57

47

21

Activities

The ABCs of Day of Service Building Awareness of needs, and recognition of those who are already contributing to the community (and there are many)

“ABCs” of

DOS Bridging our NUS community with the many opportunities

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

A call to action for all to Contribute

Stock-taking and packing food for beneficiaries NUSSU Alumni and Senior Deputy President and Provost, Professor Ho Teck Hua (Engineering ‘85)

Sci@Home: NUS Science Demonstration Lab and Young Educators in Science To help parents overcome challenges they may face in providing guidance to their children, the science kits contain an activity booklet with instructions and interesting questions to help engage children in meaningful science-based enquiry. Online workshops held also allow for meaningful interactions with volunteers.

Volunteering at Willing Hearts Soup Kitchen

nus.edu.sg/alumnet/DOS

Led by the team from University Communications Office, NUS Senior Management volunteered with Willing Hearts, cooking food in their Soup Kitchen for their beneficiaries.

Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy Bangladesh Chapter

NUS BIZAlum “For the Love of Stories”

Distribution of masks to low-income rickshaw pullers in Dhaka.

Reading stories to children from Beyond Social Services via Zoom.

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Networking President’s Dialogue with Alumni President’s Dialogue with Alumni provides a platform for interactions between alumni from different faculties and schools and the NUS President on a more personal and deeper level, with an objective to foster closer ties between alumni and alma mater.

January 8

NUS Overseas College

March 10

Faculty of Law

August 13

Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy

August 27

Faculty of Science

August 28

Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

September 18

University Scholar Programme

September 24

Faculty of Engineering

October 6,7 & 15

College of Humanities and Sciences (Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and Faculty of Sciences)

October 22 & 27 November 5

College of Design and Environment (Faculty of Engineering and School of Design and Environment)

November 4

School of Design and Environment

November 26

Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music

December 10

Institute of Systems Science

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

Thirsty Thursdays [Online] This popular social and networking event provides a platform for young alumni to meet and hear from guest speakers who share professional experiences, lifelong learning, and career opportunities. Due to the pandemic, Thirsty Thursdays moved online in a refreshed format, allowing for Casual Conversations on trending topics.

September 3

December 3

Why Save Mother Earth?

Happiness Hacks – Ways to Enrich Your Life with Joy

MS AUDREY TAN | Arts and Social Sciences ’13 MR CHOO RUIZHI | Arts and Social Sciences ’17 Two young alumni, Ms Audrey Tan and Mr Choo Ruizhi shared insights on the relevance of environmental history and the alarming environmental damage caused by human activities on Earth. The session closed with ice-breaker games and a Virtual Toast.

MS ELIZABETH ONG | Arts and Social Sciences ’14 This engaging and animated session featured Ms Elizabeth Ong, who shared practical advice and tips on how to keep a positive outlook. Attendees also had the chance to exchange their personal happiness hacks with one another and make new friends through interactive games.

37

Understanding our Alumni in Tough Times Between 19 June to 10 July, a short survey was conducted to find out if alumni had specific needs because of COVID-19. A total of 232 alumni participated in the survey, allowing us to identify their pain points and offer solutions amidst these trying times.

What is your main concern?

• Health of family members • Job security

Demography of respondents

• Maintaining social and community bonds

Age profile 71 - 80

How can alma mater help you?

61 - 70

• Offer complimentary of affordable courses to reskill/upskill • Offer access to exclusive career resources • Provide insights from thought leaders on how to navigate the “new normal”

How can the NUS community help one another?

• Provide opportunities to share information and resources • Form alliances to resolve social issues

51 - 60

41 - 50

4.7% 9.5% 17.2% 16.4% 31.1%

31 - 40 30 and below

21.1% Geography

Asia

Beyond Asia

Singapore

Others

7%

6%

• Offer and receive mentorship/internship surpport

74%

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

13%

Online Event Summation

27 5,887

Online events

Online participants

We sincerely thank all our valued partners, alumni and friends who engaged with us online!

39

Homecomings Bukit Timah Homecoming [Online] July 4

Blast from the Past Themed “Blast from the Past”, Bukit Timah Homecoming 2020 went virtual! Co-hosted by the Faculty of Law and the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, Bukit Timah Homecoming 2020 celebrated the 115th Anniversary of NUS and the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Faculty of Engineering’s 65th Anniversary, NUS Business School’s 55th Anniversary, and 50th Anniversary of the Class of 1970.

Mr­Ho Jun Yi (Law and Public Policy ’11), and Ms Trisha Suresh (Public Policy ’11) – compared stories of their school life at Bukit Timah Campus. During a dialogue hosted by Mr Bernard Toh titled “Bukit Timah Conversations”, Mr Navtej Singh (Arts and Social Sciences ’72) and Ms Zaibun Siraj (Arts and Social Sciences ’68) reminisced about their time as undergraduates.

Kicking off the virtual celebrations was a plethora of activities such as “Memories@BTC” – where alumni shared stories and photos of their student life. Special thanks goes to Mr Thomas Tham Kwok Onn (Science ’67), who sponsored a Bukit Timah Homecoming 2020-themed souvenir that was mailed to all attendees.

The day ended with an e-Toast Ceremony, where alumni and staff gathered virtually to toast to another successful homecoming.

The day of celebrations began with a message from the Guest-of-Honour, President Halimah Yacob (Law ’78), NUS Chancellor, alongside greeting messages from Professor Tan Eng Chye (Science ’85), NUS President; Mr Bernard Toh (Architecture ’84), Director, NUS Alumni Relations; Professor Simon Chesterman, Dean, Faculty of Law; and Professor Danny Quah, Dean, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy.

Participants caught a glimpse of the old Bukit Timah Campus and highlights of past Homecoming celebrations.

In the “Senior vs Young” video, alumni from four generations — Associate Professor Victor R Savage (Arts and Social Sciences ‘72), Mrs Noor Quek (Business ‘72),

nus.edu.sg/alumnet/events/bth

1

3 1 The Bukit Timah “Four Musketeers” by Mr Lui Seng Fatt (Business ‘81) 2 Raffles College Athletics Team - Taken in 1939 3 Bukit Timah Conversations

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

2

Kent Ridge Alumni Family Day [Online] August 15

A Twist in Tradition With a myriad of engaging and interactive activities throughout the day, 2020’s Kent Ridge Alumni Family Day put a Twist on the annual homecoming Tradition.

Alumni, students, and staff were treated to a full day of fun programming that took place on the AlumNET, Zoom, and Facebook Live. With the event moving online, over 7,000 participants were able to tune in and enjoy the day’s activities and reconnect with their alma mater.

1

Various performances and workshops were broadcast live throughout the day. The full day’s programme closed with an “Ask Us Anything” session where alumni had the opportunity to pose questions to NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye (Science ’85), NUS Senior Deputy President and Provost Professor Ho Teck Hua (Engineering ’85), and NUS Vice- Provost (Masters’ Programmes and Lifelong Education) Professor Susanna Leong (Law ’89).

The lively session was moderated by Ms Akanksha Batura (Business ’12).

2

Missed out on the fun? Recordings are available at alumnet.events/KR20 or facebook.com/NUSoar 3

4

1 Performance by the NUS Alumni Indian Ensemble 2 Performances by alumni band @Project 3 Ms Danielle Chan (Arts and Social Sciences ‘18) answering the audience’s questions on challenges faced in setting up Citiponics 4 Drone Photography - one of the many informative and exciting Lifelong Learning programmes 41

Lifelong Learning Zoom with Confidence Workshop A Zoom with Confidence workshop was held to equip senior alumni with the necessary skills to navigate the world of digitalisation: how to set up and use the video conferencing platform, Zoom, on laptop PCs and mobile devices.

Championed by Mr Kevin Ee (Engineering ’84), Chairperson of NUS Senior Alumni, the physical workshop was conducted in a small group with safe management measures in place, and facilitated by members of the NUS Computing Alumni Association, led by Chairperson Ms Jeannel Mah (Computing ‘16).

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NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

Connecting with You in the New Normal NUS OAR ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Arts and Culture 1st Peruvian Film Festival October 29 Film

El Evangelio de la Carne (The Gospel of the Flesh) In celebration of 40 years of Peru-Singapore diplomatic relations and to commemorate the bicentennial of Peru’s Independence in 2021, the Embassy of the Republic of Peru in Singapore and NUS Alumni Relations presented the inaugural Peruvian Film Festival. The event was graced by His Excellency Carlos Raul Vasquez Corrales, Ambassador of the Republic of Peru to Singapore and Mr Johnny Tan (Science ’82), Co-Chairman of the NUS Alumni Advisory Board.

During his opening address, Director of NUS Alumni Relations, Mr Bernard Toh (Architecture ’84), highlighted the similarities between Peru and Singapore – both countries had significant historical events occurring in the same era (the arrival of Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819, and independence for Peru in 1821), and both have grown from humble beginnings to become vibrant economies today.

Due to the safe management measures implemented because of the COVID-19 pandemic, guests were spread out across the auditorium and had to keep a safe distance from one another. However, that did not prevent the audience from fully enjoying the cinematic experience as they watched the acclaimed film “El Evangelio de la Carne (The Gospel of the Flesh)”, which was directed

by Eduardo Mendoza de Echave. Not only were the

44

NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

audience treated to a tale that explored how being good; is sometimes not an option, they also were able to experience some of Peru’s sights, sounds, and colours, and learn more about its culture through the film.

To celebrate the success of the first Peruvian Film Festival, and to end the night on a sweet note, guests received some Peruvian snacks, compliments of the Embassy.

9th China Film Festival

8th Canadian Film Festival

November 10 to 13

December 17, 18, 21, 22

Films

Films

I Belonged To You 从你的全世界路过

The Grizzlies Kuessipan Meditation Park

Skiptrace 绝地逃亡

I am Somebody 我是路人甲 The Great Wall 长城 Jointly organised by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Singapore, the Singapore China Friendship Association, and NUS Alumni Relations, the China Film Festival returned for the 9th consecutive year to bring the best of Chinese films to NUS alumni.

After a two-year hiatus, the High Commission of Canada and the NUS Alumni Relations came together once again to present the Canadian Film Festival 2020.

The Opening Night was graced by Mr Que Xiaohua, Cultural Counsellor of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Singapore; Professor Phua Kok Khoo, President of the Singapore China Friendship Association; and NUS President, Professor Tan Eng Chye (Science ‘85).

Movies On The House Movies On The House offers complimentary movies to members of the NUS community, showcasing a variety of films from recent hits to old favourites. Friends and family members of alumni are welcome.

Godzilla: King of the Monsters (PG13) January 30 45

Year in Review NUS OAR ANNUAL REPORT 2020

2020 Year in Review JANUARY 8

President’s Dialogue with Alumni: NUS Overseas Colleges

14

Future-ready Workshops: Collaboration – The New Buzzword!

15

Kent Ridge Alumni Family Day [Online]: A Twist in Tradition

30

Movies On The House: Godzilla: King of Monsters (PG 13)

18

31

Chinese New Year Appreciation Dinner

Tech Talk [Online]: Winning in a World of Digital Banking and Digital Payments

13

29

MARCH 10

19

Tech Talk [Online]: How AI is Changing Cybersecurity

JUNE 24

WoW: In Conversation [Online]: Women Leading in Times of Crisis

Bukit Timah Homecoming: Blast from the Past

14

Future-ready Workshops [Online]: Tips to Being a High-Performing Remote Employee

18

23

NUS Alumni Leaders Forum [Online]: Alumni Relations in The Age of Disruption Health and Wellness [Online]: Understanding and Managing Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Health and Wellness [Online]: Dietary Practice and Your Gut – Keeping GI Symptoms Away

22, 27

President’s Dialogue with Alumni: College of Design and Environment with Faculty of Engineering and School of Design and Environment

29

1st Peruvian Film Festival

30

U@live [Online]: Climate Change – Are Tomorrow’s Needs more Important than Today’s Reality?

President’s Dialogue with Alumni: Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

NOVEMBER 4

President’s Dialogue with Alumni: School of Design and Environment

5

President’s Dialogue with Alumni: College of Design and Environment with Faculty of Engineering and School of Design and Environment

3

Thirsty Thursdays [Online]: Casual Conversations – Why Save Mother Earth?

5

NUS Day of Service

18

President’s Dialogue with Alumni: University Scholars Programme

10 to 13

9th China Film Festival

18

Lunch Dialogues [Online]: From Entrepreneurship to Public Service

17

Tech Talk [Online]: The Hype versus Reality of the Impact of FinTech on Law

24

President’s Dialogue with Alumni: Faculty of Engineering

26

President’s Dialogue with Alumni: Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music

JULY 4

President’s Dialogue with Alumni: Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy

SEPTEMBER

President’s Dialogue with Alumni: Faculty of Law

MAY

22

AUGUST

OCTOBER 6, 7 & 15

President’s Dialogue with Alumni: College of Humanities and Sciences with Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and Faculty of Science

10

Zoom with Confidence Workshop

13

Future-ready Workshops [Online]: Virtual Networking: Building Bridges to Opportunities

DECEMBER 3

Thirsty Thursdays [Online]: Casual Conversations – Happiness Hacks – Ways to Enrich Your Life with Joy

10

President’s Dialogue with Alumni: Institute of Systems Science

17, 18, 21, 22

8th Canadian Film Festival

Photo gallery:

nus.edu.sg/alumnet/gallery

47

Alumni Pillars NUS OAR ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Alumni Groups

76

Alumni Groups

42

Faculty / School / Department groups

28

Interest groups

6

Hall groups

49

Overseas Engagement 19 Overseas Chapters Formalised committees with Chairpersons approved by NUS President and appointed by Director, NUS Alumni Relations.

China Beijing Chengdu Hong Kong Shanghai Xiamen

Australia Melbourne Perth Sydney Canada Toronto Vancouver

India New Delhi

Indonesia Jakarta

The Philippines Manila

Japan Tokyo

United Kingdom London

Malaysia Kuching

United States of America Boston San Francisco

New Zealand Auckland

Canada

United Kingdom

2

1

1 Global Ambassador Well-connected individuals keen to help reconnect NUS and fellow alumni Myanmar, Yangon 1 Alumni Circle Formalised committees involved in organising programmes and activities to connect NUS and fellow alumni Vietnam

Myanmar India Vietnam

1

5

China 1

Japan

2 United States of America

nus.edu.sg/alumnet/community

50

NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

1

1

Malaysia

The Philippines 1

3

Indonesia

Australia

1

New Zealand

Students, New Alumni, NUSSU/GSS Dialogues, Associate Directors Students

New Alumni

Class Ambassadors, Class of 2020

Commencement

Class Ambassadors help to ensure that their cohort continue to maintain strong ties with their Faculty, School, Hall of Residence or Residential College and alma mater after graduation.

NUS Commencement is traditionally celebrated in July each year. In 2020, however, the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted campus life and events, including the Commencement ceremonies.

165

New Class Amassadors

12,074 New Graduates

Graduands received: • A lumConnect A starter kit for new alumni • Graduates’ first copy of The AlumNUS magazine

Associate Directors for Alumni Relations NUS Students’ Union and Graduate Students’ Society Dialogue This annual dialogue aims to foster closer ties between OAR and student leaders and to explore possible collaboration opportunities between students and alumni.

November 4 nus.edu.sg/alumnet/class-ambassadors

Responsible for engaging alumni from their respective Faculty, Associate School, Hall of Residence, College Directors and Department, and to strengthen and deepen relationships with NUS. Quarterly meetings were held with Associate Directors to discuss alumni-related matters, and to discuss opportunities and challenges.

27

nus.edu.sg/alumnet/community

51

OAR Team Photo Directorate Provides strategic direction for the office in its global outreach efforts in line with NUS’ aspirations.

Ms Florence Neo Mr Bernard Toh Director and Head, Director and Head of Department, Alumni Communications Office of Alumni Relations and Engagement

Ms Hamidah Salleh Senior Associate Director and Head, Administration

Ms Maureen Oliveiro PA to Director

Administration Manages SFAH Operations and provides Information Management, Finance, Human Resource, and Administrative support.

SFAH Operations Ms Chloe Chua Assistant Manager

Mr Mohd Faried Bin Hassan Assistant Manager

Ms Niki Chong Executive

Information Management Mr John Pleyto Manager 52

Ms Khine Zin Thet Assistant Manager

NUS OAR Annual Report 2020

Ms Hamidah Bte Ithnin Management Assistant Officer

Human Resource and Administration Mr Lau Zhen Wei Senior Executive

Ms Amy Wu Assistant Manager

Ms Wendy Ng Operations Associate

Alumni Communications and Engagement Strengthens bonds with alumni through programmes and activities; and develops branding and communications strategies to better reach out to alumni.

Mr Samuel Tan Associate Director

Mr Benjamin Lee Assistant Senior Manager

Ms Gabriella Nyam Assistant Manager

Ms Tan Li Hui Executive

Ms Julene Kee Assistant Senior Manager

Mr Ng Shan Jun Assistant Manager

Mr Kenneth Phang Executive

Ms Josephine Chng Manager

Mr Roystonn Loh Senior Executive

Ms Noreen Kwan Management Assistant Officer

Ms Susan Ng Operations Associate

Correct as at February 2021 53

11 Kent Ridge Drive, #05-01 Shaw Foundation Alumni House, Singapore 119244 Telephone: +65 6516 5775 Email: alumnihelpdesk@nus.edu.sg Website: nus.edu.sg/alumnet

The AlumNUS magazine: nus.edu.sg/alumnet/TheAlumNUS

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NUS Alumni

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