The University of Hong Kong (HKU) held the Dedication Ceremony for Phoenix Yuen College at the College Hall on 29 September 2026, expressing its heartfelt gratitude to the Phoenix Yuen Foundation Fund Limited for their extraordinary support of the University and its students. The College is named in memory of Mrs Phoenix Yuen, a beloved educator, performing artist and proud HKU alumna, whose lifelong commitment to education, the arts and community service continues to inspire future generations.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including Dr Joseph Yuen and Mr Simon Ho, representing the Phoenix Yuen Foundation Fund Limited; Professor Xiang Zhang, President and Vice-Chancellor of HKU; Professor Yang Wang, Vice-President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Institutional Advancement) of HKU; Professor Chen Lin, Vice-President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Business); Professor Kelvin Yeung, Dean of Student Affairs, Professor Sophia Chan, Master of Phoenix Yuen College; Professor Ivan Hung, Master of Karson Choi College; Professor Pamela Lee, Master of D. H. Chen College; Professor Kaimin Shih, Master of College 2; and members of the College community.
In welcome remarks, Professor Sophia Chan reflected on the unique role of residential education in nurturing students' personal growth, leadership, and sense of community. She noted that Phoenix Yuen College strives to cultivate an environment where students from diverse backgrounds can learn from one another, form lifelong friendships, and develop into compassionate and responsible global citizens.
During the ceremony, Professor Zhang delivered a vote of thanks on behalf of the University, expressing deep appreciation to the Yuen family for their generosity and vision. He paid tribute to Mrs Yuen's enduring legacy as an educator and artist whose passion for learning and dedication to enriching the lives of others continue to resonate today.
A highlight of the event was the unveiling ceremony, during which Dr Yuen, Professor Zhang and Professor Chan officially unveiled the dedication plaque, marking a significant milestone in the College's history. The ceremony symbolised the lasting partnership between the University and the Yuen family, united by a shared commitment to empowering young people through education.
Following the unveiling, the College presented commemorative hoodies and souvenir bearing the College Logo to Dr Yuen and Professor Zhang as tokens of appreciation.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Dr Yuen reflected on the family's deep roots in Hong Kong. He expressed the family's gratitude for the opportunities they had received and their desire to give back by supporting the development of future generations of students.
Dr Yuen emphasised that in an era characterised by complex global challenges and rapid advances in artificial intelligence, learning extends far beyond textbooks and classrooms. He expressed confidence that HKU would continue to guide and support students as they navigate an increasingly dynamic world, in line with the University's vision of being "a world-leading university transforming humanity's future."
Drawing on the Serenity Prayer, Dr Yuen encouraged students to cultivate the serenity to accept what cannot be changed, the courage to change what can be changed, and the wisdom to distinguish between the two. His message resonated strongly with students and guests alike, underscoring the importance of resilience, discernment and character in an ever-changing world.
Following the ceremony, a High Table Dinner was held at HKU's historic Loke Yew Hall, bringing together distinguished guests, students and College affiliates. The dinner provided an opportunity for the College community to celebrate the dedication of Phoenix Yuen College and reflect on the enduring values embodied by Mrs Phoenix Yuen's legacy. The evening highlighted the importance of residential education in fostering intellectual exchange, personal growth and meaningful connections among students from diverse backgrounds.
Phoenix Yuen College is one of the four residential colleges at HKU's Jockey Club Student Village IV. Through its programmes, high table dinners, cultural activities and leadership opportunities, the College provides a vibrant and inclusive community where students can pursue intellectual, personal and social development beyond the classroom.
The Dedication Ceremony marked not only the official naming of the College but also a celebration of Mrs Phoenix Yuen's enduring legacy. Through the generosity of the Yuen family, her passion for education, creativity and service will continue to enrich the lives of HKU students for generations to come.
