CityUHK College of Business Alumni Conference and Dinner: A day of connection and innovation
On 26 April 2025, the City University of Hong Kong's College of Business hosted its inaugural Alumni Conference and Dinner, bringing together over 200 alumni for a day filled with connection and celebration. This event highlighted the enduring bonds within the College's extensive network of more than 60,000 alumni from diverse programmes, including DBA, EMBA, MBA, Master’s, and undergraduate degrees. This is the first time we have organised an event for alumni from all programmes.
Dean Kalok Chan welcomes alumni and guests in his opening remarks.
The day began with a conference themed “Bridging for Innovation,” offering a unique platform for discussions about the current economic landscape, emphasising innovation and entrepreneurship as essential strategies for success. Alumni, faculty, and distinguished guests had the opportunity to reconnect and share insights. The Master of Ceremony, Professor Vivian Zheng, MBA Associate Director, opened the event by sharing her journey as a CityUHK alumnus and emphasising the shared experiences that unite our vibrant community.
With “Bridging for Innovation” as the guiding theme, the conference underscored the importance of creativity in addressing contemporary challenges. Dean Kalok Chan set the stage with inspiring opening remarks, followed by a keynote address and two engaging panel discussions.
Professor Fred Sheu, National Technology Officer of Microsoft Hong Kong, captivated the audience with his insights on artificial intelligence and its transformative impact on business. Prof. Sheu highlighted the importance of taking action to participate in this transformational AI journey to make ourselves future-proof. Following his speech, DBA Programme Director Professor Muammer Ozer facilitated a lively Q&A session, fostering meaningful dialogue and engagement.
Two panel discussions provided valuable platforms for alumni to share their perspectives on pressing industry issues. The first panel, “Adapting to Disruptions: Challenges and Opportunities in the Trump Era,” moderated by Professor Michael Wong, focused on navigating global complexities. Esteemed speakers included Mr. Peter Ko, CEO of Honour Mailing and Printing Ltd; Dr. Benny Luk, former CEO of Greater China of BGC Group of Companies; Mr. Calvin Wu, CEO of Shing Hing Plastic Manufacturing Limited; and Ms. Jesse Yau, President & CEO of Thousand Million Jewelry Manufacturing Ltd.
Professor Fred Sheu shares his insights on artificial intelligence and its transformative impact on business.
Professor Muammer Ozer (right) has a meaningful and engaging dialogue with Prof Fred Sheu.
(From left) Professor Michael Wong, moderator of panel one, presents souvenirs to the panelists Dr. Benny Luk, Mr. Peter Ko, Ms. Jesse Yau and Mr. Calvin Wu.
(From left) Professor Chak-fu Lam, moderator of panel two, presents souvenirs to the panelists Dr. Xiangrong Yu, Ir. Dr. David Ng, Dr. Wilson Yeh and Ms. Rachel Ho.
The second panel, “Growing High Hopes: Cultivating Sustainable Entrepreneurship,” moderated by Professor Chak-fu Lam, explored innovative solutions for a sustainable future. Speakers included Ms. Rachel Ho, Senior Marketing and Communications Manager of Save the Children Hong Kong; Ir. Dr. David Ng, CEO of High Tech Technology Limited and CEO of FinSiliconX; Dr. Wilson Yeh, Executive Director of Orient Century Group; and Dr. Xiangrong Yu, Chief China Economist of Citi Bank.
Throughout the day, ample networking opportunities encouraged our business alumni to reconnect and forge new collaborations. The College remains dedicated to providing ongoing value through professional development and resource sharing.
Following the conference, attendees enjoyed a delightful dinner, reconnecting with old friends, making new ones, and witnessing the recent developments of the College of Business in a heartfelt opening video.
Professor Michael Yang, Senior Vice President of Innovation and Enterprise, delivered an inspiring opening remark, highlighting the importance of innovation and the shared journey of the CityUHK community. His words resonated with participants, reminding them of their vital contributions to the College's success and the importance of nurturing future leaders.
Dean Kalok Chan expressed his excitement at seeing so many familiar faces during his welcome address. He highlighted the significance of alumni relationships and the vibrant network that spans various industries globally. This strong community fosters collaboration and growth within the College of Business.
Professor Michael Yang highlights the importance of innovation and the shared journey of the CityUHK community in his dinner opening remarks.
The atmosphere during dinner was filled with laughter and engaging conversations as attendees shared stories of their journeys since graduation and explored opportunities for collaboration.
One of the most exciting announcements of the evening came from Dean Kalok Chan regarding the establishment of the College Alumni Advisory Board (CAAB). This initiative underscores our commitment to leveraging our alumni network as a strategic asset. Founding members of the CAAB include Mr. Jackson Chan (EMBA Chinese 2024), Mr. Wilson Chong (BA Quantitative Analysis for Business 1992), Mr. Anthony Lam (EMBA 2015), Mr. William Mak (BA Accountancy 1991), and Mr. Dan Wang (EMBA Chinese 2018). The Dean also called for more committed alumni to volunteer for the advisory board to support the College and its students.
Group photo of the CityUHK and CB management team at the toasting session. (From left)
1. Prof. Vivian Zheng, MBA Programme Associate Director
2. Prof. Chak-fu Lam, MBA Programme Director
3. Prof. Muammer Ozer, DBA Programme Director
4. Prof. Frank Chen, Head of Department of Decision Analytics and Operations
5. Prof. Gang Hao, Associate Dean (China Executive Programmes and Advancement) of the College of Business
6. Prof. Kalok Chan, Dean of the College of Business
7. Prof. Michael Yang, Senior Vice-President (Innovation and Enterprise) of CityUHK
8. Prof. Stephen Shum, Associate Provost (Quality Assurance and Accountability) of CityUHK
9. Ms. Grace Liang, Director of CityUHK Alumni Relations Office
10. Prof. Michael Wong, Associate Dean (Global Executive Programmes) of the College of Business
11. Prof. David Li, Head of Department of Marketing
12. Prof. Huazhong Zhao, DBA Chinese Programme Director
The evening featured various activities, including a lucky draw and introductions from alumni community leaders, further enriching the experience. As the evening drew to a close, the hosts encouraged everyone to remain connected, emphasising the importance of continuing to bridge gaps and drive innovation together. With plans for future events and initiatives, the College of Business is poised to strengthen its alumni network further, ensuring that every graduate feels valued and engaged.
The CityUHK College of Business Alumni Conference and Dinner reaffirmed the College's commitment to nurturing a vibrant community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all attendees for participating and hope they take pride in being part of such a dynamic community, because TOGETHER, WE THRIVE.
