A Night of Wonder: NUS120 Gala Dinner at Marina Bay Sands

Celebrating 120 Years of Excellence, Impact, and Wonder

On a warm July evening, the grand ballroom of Marina Bay Sands shimmered with purpose and pride as alumni, faculty, and friends of the National University of Singapore (NUS) gathered for a once-in-a-lifetime occasion: the NUS 120 Gala Dinner. More than a celebration, the event served as a tribute to the University’s remarkable journey from its modest beginnings in 1905 to its place today among the world’s most prestigious institutions—Asia’s #1 and 8th globally.

From Humble Beginnings to Global Eminence

Founded to address the high infant mortality rate in colonial Singapore, NUS began as a medical school with just 24 students. Over the course of 120 years, it evolved into a world-leading university with an enduring impact across medicine, science, policy, business, technology, and the arts. The Gala Dinner reflected this trajectory of transformation, blending nostalgic stories of the past with bold aspirations for the future.

Amidst a sea of elegant attire and radiant smiles, the evening spotlighted milestones of innovation and resilience, and the enduring NUS spirit that connects generations across disciplines and borders.

A Warm Participation from the Philippines

The Philippine Delegation stood out as a vibrant and deeply engaged contingent. Representing a broad cross-section of faculties and fields—from business owners and technocrats to policy consultants and global leaders—#ManilaAlumNUS came in full force, embodying the rich diversity and global footprint of NUS alumni.

“I am deeply touched by the commitment of my fellow Manila alumni,” shared the current Chairperson of the NUS Alumni Network Manila, Dr. Venus Cloma-Rosales, MD, MPH, ME. “We had such a strong and beautiful mix of professionals—highly accomplished, yet incredibly kind, hardworking, and generous individuals. Being in their company filled me with both pride and gratitude.”

Their participation at the Gala was not just symbolic. It was a clear affirmation of the strong and growing bonds within the alumni network in Manila and their enduring connection to the University’s mission and values.

A Personal Journey of Service

Reflecting on her role as Chairperson, Dr. Cloma-Rosales added candidly, “I was so petrified at first to assume the Chairperson role this year! But now I have grown into it and am truly enjoying it because of the incredible support system—fellow officers, our alumni community, and the University itself.”

What began as a daunting responsibility has become a meaningful mission. “Everything I do now is an act of service and deep gratitude—and of fun and friendship! This opportunity came at just the right time.”

Her remarks captured a core truth about the alumni experience at NUS: leadership grows best in the soil of service and shared purpose.

Looking Ahead: NUS120 Grand Alumni Homecoming

As the last toast was raised and the ballroom lights dimmed, the spirit of celebration carried forward with anticipation for the next major highlight: the NUS 120 Grand Alumni Homecoming at the historic Bukit Timah Campus.

The NUS Alumni Network Manila is already gearing up for another meaningful gathering, once again affirming its commitment to the enduring values of excellence, community, and global citizenship.