FMBA 25th anniversary gala concludes on a high note

On the evening of 24 May 2025, the InterContinental Beijing Beichen played host to a glittering celebration as the 25th anniversary gala of the CUHK FMBA programme (previously jointly run by CUHK and Tsinghua University) unfolded in grand style. The event brought together alumni from around the world, esteemed faculty, student representatives, and honoured guests for an occasion that seamlessly intertwined reflection on the past with aspirations for the future.

 

A memorable opening and inspiring remarks

The evening began with a specially produced video, offering a condensed yet heartfelt look back at the FMBA programme’s 25-year journey. Programme directors, professors, and alumni from across the globe sent in their warmest congratulations and best wishes.

This was followed by opening remarks from Professor Zhou Lin, dean of CUHK Business School; Professor Bai Chongen, dean of the School of Economics and Management at Tsinghua University; Professor Gu Zhaoyang, director of the FMBA programme; and Dai Xiaoyuan (FMBA 2002), president of the FMBA Alumni Association.

The speakers spoke highly of FMBA as a model of cross-border collaboration in higher education between Hong Kong and mainland China, and shared their deep hopes and expectations for the programme’s continued excellence and future development.

 

 

Conversations of insight: Where thoughts meet legacy

In a themed dialogue session “journeying with insights: a retrospective and forward look”, founding faculty and key contributors to the FMBA programme — including Professors Xu Xin, He Jia, Chen Guoquan, and Zhu Yujie — gathered in person to reflect on the programme’s evolution and reaffirm its educational mission. Moderated by Dai Xiaoyuan ,the conversation balanced thoughtful reflection with the passing on of core values. The warm, lively atmosphere reflected strong faculty–student bonds and a shared optimism for the programme’s future.

 

 

Establishment of the FMBA global alumni liaison office and family club

The celebration also marked the official launch of the FMBA Alumni Association’s global liaison office, signifying a new chapter in the growth of FMBA’s global alumni network and the expansion of alumni-led initiatives.

 

Unveiling of liaison representatives across five regions

Oceania: Zhang Jun (FMBA 2004), Chen Jian (FMBA 2004)

North America: Xu Shangyue (FMBA 2014), Tang Xiaoli (FMBA 2014)

Middle East: Chen Guizhu (FMBA 2013), Long Di (FMBA 2021), Ju Nina (FMBA 2023)

Southeast Asia: Wu Qian (FMBA 2014), Jing Hao (FMBA 2017)

Europe: Wang Zhi Sheng (FMBA 2006), Zhao Ning (FMBA 2006), Pan Jialing (FMBA 2024)

 

At the ceremony, alumni association representatives presented official plaques to the newly established regional liaison offices and the FMBA family club, amid warm applause from the audience. Chen Guizhu and Zhang Ying (FMBA 2012) each delivered remarks on behalf of their respective groups, outlining a shared vision for deeper regional engagement and family-friendly alumni initiatives.

 

In tandem, the FMBA family club was also formally established, with Zhang Ying appointed as president, and Xia Hua (FMBA 2016), Zhang Xue (FMBA 2022), and Jing Lanmiao (FMBA 2024) serving as vice presidents.

 

 

In tribute to dedication

In the “with gratitude and heart” award session, more than 20 alumni were honoured with the “FMBA outstanding alumni contribution award” in recognition of their long-standing support for the programme. Honourees included:

From Beijing: Qi Lian (FMBA 2002), Wang Guang Yu (FMBA 2006), Dai Xiaoyuan (FMBA 2002), Bai Songtao (FMBA 2018), Wang Yaojun (FMBA 2010), Kang Yingnan (FMBA 2014), Li Lan (FMBA 2020), Yang Xixi (FMBA 2021), Bi Ran (FMBA 2022)

From Shenzhen: Han Yong Zhi (FMBA 2006), Feng Ye (FMBA 2006), Wang Lixin (FMBA 2012), Huang Shikun (FMBA 2011), Zhu Yuelong (FMBA 2009), Li Quansheng (FMBA 2015), Zhang Xiuhai (FMBA 2015), Yu Zhuojun (FMBA 2014)

The awards were jointly presented by Professor Zhou Lin and Professor Bai Chongen, acknowledging the recipients’ valuable contributions in supporting their alma mater and serving the alumni community.

 

 

Painting the future, together

Guided by artist Jun Shou, more than 100 guests co-created a commemorative painting titled “auspicious blessings from the East”. The artwork, which incorporates the bauhinia and red-crowned crane — symbols of the two universities — reflects a spirit of harmony, cultural exchange, and mutual growth. Cui Yu (FMBA 2019) inscribed a message in tribute – “With moral depth comes the strength to serve; through learning and temperance to virtue”.

With university leaders, founding faculty, and alumni in attendance, the FMBA 25th anniversary commemorative series was officially launched, marking the beginning of a bold new chapter.

 

A stream of entertainment and surprises

 

The gala offered a dynamic programme of performances, from poetry readings and solo vocals to saxophone and choral pieces. Excitement built throughout the evening with multiple rounds of lucky draws that kept guests fully engaged. In recognition of exceptional contributions to the FMBA alumni community, the alumni association also presented certificates of appreciation to 12 industry associations and 13 interest clubs, celebrating their key role in cultivating a vibrant and connected alumni network.

 

Celebrating 25 years of excellence, launching a new chapter

The FMBA 25th anniversary gala served as both a warm retrospective on the programme’s remarkable journey and a powerful call to action. In the months to come, a series of themed celebratory events will be rolled out across the globe to sustain the momentum of the anniversary celebrations.

At this important milestone, the FMBA programme — together with alumni from across industries — reaffirms its commitment to the guiding spirit of “with moral depth comes the strength to serve; through learning and temperance to virtue”. Rooted in Hong Kong with a global outlook, the programme will continue to broaden its international reach and cultivate business leaders who are firmly grounded in local values and attuned to global perspectives.

 

 

Repost from CUHK FMBA WeChat official account 本文转载自[香港中文大学FMBA项目]公众号: CUHK-FMBA