Singapore, 13 February 2025 – Singapore Management University (SMU) is proud to announce an additional S$2 million gift from Dr Lillyn Teh—her second major contribution following her initial S$3.14 million gift in April 2024. Her new gift is a timely boost for SMU in our silver jubilee year, expanding the Lillyn Teh Endeavour Study Award and launching the Lillyn Teh Global Endeavour Grant, reinforcing SMU’s commitment to breaking financial barriers and enriching student experiences.
Building on her first gift in 2024 — which provides eight non-bonded Study Awards per academic year over five consecutive years (AY2024/2025 to AY2028/2029) —this new gift adds 25 additional non-bonded Study Awards to be disbursed in AY2025/26. Each is valued at S$40,000 (S$10,000 annually over four academic years) to support tuition and study-related expenses.
In addition, 250 students will benefit from a S$4,000 Lillyn Teh Global Endeavour Grant each, allowing them to participate in overseas exposure activities such as international exchange programmes, short-term study programmes, or global internships.
The gift expands SMU students’ opportunities for global exposure and enriches their learning experience in Asia and beyond.
A Commitment to Global Exposure
As Singapore’s first and only university to make global exposure mandatory as a degree requirement, SMU boasts a network of over 220 partner universities in more than 150 cities across 45 countries. This initiative ensures every student participates in an international experience—be it through exchanges, summer schools, overseas internships, or community service projects.
Strengthening Financial Support for All
SMU’s needs-blind admissions policy ensures that financial constraints never stand in the way of talent and student development. In AY2024, over S$10 million was allocated to financial aid programmes, while the refreshed SMU Access Plus scheme now covers full tuition and, for the lowest-income students, provides an annual living allowance.
A Legacy of Giving Back
Dr Lillyn Teh was an educator and taught at two American universities before joining the private sector, where she managed one of the largest US pension funds and was responsible for US$60 billion in global equities. Now happily retired, she attributes her personal success to the strong support and encouragement she received from her parents and is deeply committed to enabling young individuals to reach their full potential.
“Education is the foundation for success and a means to bridge socio-economic gaps. By empowering students with financial support and global exposure, I hope to help shape future leaders who are adaptable, creative, and ready to tackle new challenges,” said Dr Teh.
Strengthening SMU’s Commitment to Student Success
SMU President, Professor Lily Kong expressed gratitude for Dr Teh’s generosity, stating: “Dr Teh’s ongoing support for education underscores the profound impact that philanthropy can have on young lives. Her gifts will provide invaluable opportunities for students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to excel in their studies and gain international experience. Her continued philanthropy reinforces SMU’s mission to nurture leaders who are both locally grounded and globally competitive. This is an investment in our collective future.”