“Professor Shih Yi-chung Elbert – CUHK Business School Scholarship” established to recognise outstanding undergraduates
CUHK Business School is deeply honoured to receive a generous bequest of $2 million from the late Professor Shih Yi-chung Elbert, former chairman and Honorary Professor in the Department of Finance. In accordance with Professor Shih’s wishes, the School has established the “Professor Shih Yi-chung Elbert – CUHK Business School Scholarship” to acknowledge undergraduate students who demonstrate both academic excellence and financial need. This initiative not only affirms students’ accomplishments but also inspires them to continue striving for success in both their academic and personal endeavours.
Professor Zhou Lin, dean of CUHK Business School, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Professor Shih and his family. He remarked, “Over the years, Professor Shih nurtured countless lives with unwavering dedication, never seeking recognition. His generous donation stands as a profound endorsement to CUHK Business School and a lasting encouragement for our students to learn proactively and rise to challenges.”
Professor Shu Tao, chairman of the Department of Finance, added, “We are sincerely grateful for Professor Shih’s selfless contributions and his steadfast commitment to academic excellence. I firmly believe that this scholarship will provide not only financial support, but also meaningful encouragement and affirmation for students academically.”
Professor Shih dedicated many years to teaching at different departments in CUHK, including Commerce, Accountancy, and Finance, cultivating generations of students. During his tenure as chairman of the Department of Finance, he spearheaded the establishment of the MSc in Finance programme. Motivated by a deep commitment to education and the nurturing of young minds, Professor Shih once quoted the Western saying, “A smooth sea never made a skilful mariner”, to encourage students to face challenges fearlessly, overcome adversity, and forge a bright future for themselves.
Over his many years at CUHK, Professor Shih (centre, front row) was widely admired and respected by those he taught. (Photo courtesy of Professor Shih’s family)
Beyond his academic contributions, Professor Shih was also actively involved in the University’s arts and sports scene. He once served as treasurer of the CUHK Peking Opera Society and took to the stage at the Hong Kong Arts Centre in a performance of The Fourth Son Visits His Mother. He was also a key player in the CUHK table tennis team.
Following his retirement, Professor Shih and his wife settled in Taiwan, where they enjoyed a fulfilling life. He passed away in July 2023. Even in his final days, Professor Shih remained deeply devoted to CUHK Business School students. One of his final wishes was to establish a scholarship at CUHK Business School — a gesture that reflected his lifelong commitment to education and his enduring devotion to the School. His generosity and dedication remain deeply admired.
Our sincere thanks to Mrs Shih and New Asia College for their contribution of photos and information.