SINGAPORE, October 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Dr Lillyn Teh, global advocate for holistic education and strong supporter of Singapore Management University (SMU), today made her third and largest donation to the university – a S$15 million donation of impact to transform lives and provide holistic education to the next generation of changemakers.
Its latest gift deepens and expands that legacy on three key fronts: empowering students through financial support, expanding horizons through global exposure, and elevating academic excellence and the learning community.
Among the new initiatives supported by this donation are:
- THE Lillyn Teh Endeavor Scholarshipto support students who demonstrate resilience and commitment to learning despite financial difficulties.
- THE Lillyn Teh Global Endeavor Scholarshipwhich will enable students with financial need to embark on student exchange programs in Asia.
- THE Lillyn Teh Scholarship for Global Leadership Effortwhich allows deserving students to participate in international exchange programs at leading global universities, thereby cultivating a more well-rounded worldview.
- THE Lillyn Teh Endeavor Scholarshipoffered each year to exceptional students of the School of Computer Science and Information Systems (SCIS) who are pursuing a second specialization in Lee Kong Chian School of Business (LKCSB).
- THE Lillyn Teh Social Event: Two gatherings will be held each year to bring together recipients of Dr. Teh’s donations, fostering mentorship, peer-to-peer learning and a strong sense of community.
- Master of Science in Applied Finance (MAF) from SMU program: sustainable funding intended to enable hands-on experience with expert advice, industry engagement, access to specialist software tools and the opportunity to invest real money in global markets.
“Dr Teh’s generosity helped lay the foundation for a vibrant and supportive community, where the recipients of his gifts can come together to share experiences, learn from each other and grow collectively. By creating this platform for mentorship and connection, Dr. Teh is shaping more than individual success stories: she is nurturing a generation of students who uplift each other and perpetuate the values of generosity, resilience, and common purpose. said Professor Lily Kong, President of SMU.
She added that Dr. Teh’s contributions have already begun to impact the entire campus. “Over the past year, Dr. Teh’s generosity has enabled SMU students to expand access to education, recognize academic excellence, and enable global exposure that broadens horizons and deepens cross-cultural understanding. Its support has also fostered a culture of learning and community, including initiatives that promote peer mentoring and hands-on experiences.
With this latest and largest gift, these areas of impact will be deepened and sustained for future generations. On behalf of the University, I express my deepest gratitude to Dr. Teh for his unwavering confidence in the mission of SMU. Its continued partnership exemplifies how our community is shaping the next chapter in SMU’s history – one that develops future-ready graduates and generates meaningful impact beyond our shores.
Dr Teh explained that his motivation to give stems from his belief in the power of education and his desire to provide growth opportunities for the next generation.
She said: “I firmly believe that education is a great equalizer and a powerful multiplier. I fully endorse SMU’s holistic and globally connected approach and believe that students should be equipped not only with knowledge, but also with curiosity, creativity, critical thinking and compassion.
This announcement comes as SMU celebrates its 25th birthdaya milestone that reflects the University’s evolution from a bold start-up institution to a globally recognized hub for innovation and impact. Dr. Teh’s gifts illustrate how philanthropy and partnership can drive the next phase of SMU’s mission – a phase where every potential is realizeded.
About the donor
Dr. Lillyn Teh is a strong advocate for education as a cornerstone in shaping young people’s future pathways. With a background in finance and computer science and both academic and industrial practitioner experience, she brings a unique interdisciplinary perspective to solving classic problems and new challenges.
Grateful for the strong support of her parents throughout her educational and professional journey, Dr. Teh is committed to giving back by expanding access to quality education that enables young people to reach their full potential. She believes that education is a powerful catalyst for social mobility and economic progress and champions meaningful initiatives that foster curiosity, creativity and critical thinking.
Dr Teh taught at two US universities before moving into the private sector, where she led one of the largest US pension funds. Now happily retired, she remains committed to making a meaningful and lasting impact on individuals and communities, helping to shape a better future for generations to come.
About SMU
A leading university in Asia, SMU is internationally recognized for its world-class research and distinguished teaching. Established in 2000, SMU’s mission is to generate cutting-edge research with global impact and develop diverse, creative, and entrepreneurial leaders for the knowledge-based economy. SMU education is known for its highly interactive, collaborative, and project-based approach to learning.
Home to more than 13,000 students in undergraduate, professional, and postgraduate research programs, SMU comprises eight schools: School of Accounting, Lee Kong Chian School of Business, School of Economics, School of Computer Science and Information Systems, Yong Pung How School of Law, School of Social Sciences, College of Integrative Studies, and College of Graduate Research. SMU offers a wide range of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in the disciplinary areas associated with its schools, as well as in multidisciplinary combinations of these areas.
SMU emphasizes rigorous, high-impact, multi- and interdisciplinary research that addresses Asian issues of global significance. SMU faculty members collaborate with leading international researchers and universities from around the world, as well as business and public sector partners. SMU’s Urban Campus is a modern facility located in the heart of downtown Singapore, fostering strategic connections with business, government and the wider community. www.smu.edu.sg
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SOURCE Singapore Management University
