As a passionate advocate of education who believes strongly that education is a catalyst that encourages curiosity and creativity, Dr Lillyn Teh is dedicated to fostering the academic and professional endeavours of young individuals.
With a background in Finance, Computer Science and Mathematics, she was an educator at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Hawaii at Manoa and previously responsible for US$60 billion in global equities as Managing Director for Public Equities at NYSTRS, the 9th largest US pension fund.
To support Singapore Management University’s priority of enabling the future of the next generation, she has gifted the university an amount of $3.14 million, which will go into providing students valuable experiences, to help them realise their full potential.
Commencing Academic Year 2024/2025, and for a term of five years, this generous gift will advance learning and create opportunities for SMU students in the following areas:
1. Lillyn Teh Endeavour Scholarship: a prestigious award supporting two outstanding students annually and tenable for four academic years of study, who intend to pursue a degree at the SMU School of Computing and Information Systems and commit to pursuing a second major offered by the SMU Lee Kong Chian School of Business.
2. Lillyn Teh Endeavour Study Awards: eight awards will be granted annually, each tenable for four academic years of study, to ensure that SMU students receive a full and holistic education despite facing financial challenges.
3. Lillyn Teh Endeavour Work-Study Grant: to facilitate opportunities for undergraduate students to develop their skills and gain experience while earning an income on campus and pursuing their studies.
4. Supporting student driven initiatives, including the development of curriculum and the establishment of a student-led investment programme to foster hands-on experience in investment strategies and portfolio management.
Dr Teh said, “I chose SMU as a beneficiary of the gift because it is a dynamic university that offers a more intimate and personalised learning environment. I appreciate SMU's holistic academic programme as it focuses on overall student development, including academic excellence, personal growth and student well-being. I have every confidence in SMU's leadership and its mission to empower students with quality education.
Throughout my own educational journey, my parents have always been my pillars of support and encouragement. This gift to SMU is a way to honour and continue their legacy of generosity and commitment to education.
I am excited about supporting and expanding the opportunities and experiences that lie ahead for the students and making a positive, lasting impact on the SMU community.”
Dr Teh’s support will undoubtedly go a long way towards supporting the University’s aspirations and empowering the future of SMU students.