10 January 2025

Dear Yale-NUS community and friends,

Happy new year! Thank you for your steadfast support all these years. It has been wonderful connecting with you. I hope to continue doing so at our events and express my gratitude in-person for your unwavering support.

As we remember the past, cherish the present and look to the future. I am pleased to share that the Yale-NUS Heritage Exhibit will be completed soon. The Exhibit, which is situated at the Yale-NUS College Hall foyer, tells the story of Yale-NUS, showcasing our history, achievements and experiences, and capturing the dynamism, energy, innovation and diversity of the College. Special thanks to Linda Koch Lorimer, Vice President, Yale University (retired), Tony Spagnola, Principal at Spagnola & Associates, Diana Bain from the President’s Office, and others in the team who have collaborated extensively on this project.

On a related note, I am also pleased to share that The First & Last Book has been published. The First & Last Book is a commemorative book showcasing the history, achievements and experiences of the College, as seen through the eyes of its students, alumni, faculty and staff. Many thanks to the editor, Associate Professor of Humanities (Literature) Andrew Hui and his editorial team, and countless other contributors who have worked tirelessly to bring this to fruition. A digital copy of The First & Last Book will be uploaded onto the Yale-NUS website later this month, so do check it out then.

I continue to be amazed by the initiatives that our students and alumni have created to support one another and the community – academic and industry groups, interest groups, community service projects, identity collectives and many more. I know the drive to create and give back will not end in 2025, and I look forward to seeing more of these, whether through the Yale-NUS Club, or other alumni-led initiatives.

I wish you a happy and deeply fulfilling year ahead.

Sincerely,

Joanne Roberts
President, Yale-NUS College