The RPA had its First Reunion on May 12 and May 13, 2023. On the first day, old colleagues gathered at the Clearwater Bay Campus. Lunch was hosted by Prof. TC Pong in his capacity as VPAB. After lunch, we toured some new buildings on campus. We were impressed by the state-of-the-art Shaw Auditorium. To test the acoustics, a pianist made a performance for us.
Prof. Yang Wang (VPIA) presented to us recent developments of the University. The presentation had aroused discussions that were so extensive that the supposedly one-hour session lasted for more than two hours. Led by RPA’s Advisor, Prof. Chia-wei Woo, some suggestions were made.
Dinner was hosted by the President, Prof. Nancy Ip. As usual, old friends and colleagues were eager to know future plans of the University and many were willing to offer assistance when necessary.
The Annual General Meeting was held after dinner.
Events on the second day took place at the HKUST Guangzhou Campus. President Lionel Ni and Vice-President Jingshen Wu, being distinguished members of the RPA, warmly welcomed the group. We had the opportunity to know more about the master plan of the University. Exchange of views continued to take place during lunch, at the gourmet restaurant there.
Since many were absorbed in discussions, we did not have enough time to tour every part of the campus. Nevertheless, we were pleasantly impressed by some amazing facilities, especially those that were not available at the Clearwater Bay Campus.
After the Guangzhou Campus tour, we paid a short visit to the nearby Minxin School, which had a close relationship with HKUST. This International School has committed to admit all applicants who are children of HKUST faculty or staff members. Prof. Lionel Ni is also a member of its Board of Directors. The founding Principal, Dr. Halina Poon, together with her colleagues and a group of bright students, provided us with interesting information about the School.
15 members of the RPA and the spouses of 5 members participated in the Reunion. In alphabetical order according to their first names, the members were Benjamin Peng, Chia-wei Woo, Donald Chang, Francis Lui, Hannah Hong Xue, Huihe Qiu, Jingshen Wu, Lionel Ni, Nelson Cue, Po Luck Yue, Tongxi Yu, Vladimir Chigrinov, Yuk Shan Wong, Zongjin Li and Zongli Lu.
