What if a building could embody gratitude? Ip Po-ting Hall stands here a testament to one man’s profound appreciation and commitment to education. This is a place where dreams take flight.
Ip Po-ting was born in Canton in 1908. His father was an important military figure. But Ip’s path diverged from the military. He pursued mechanical engineering at MIT. Later, he switched to civil engineering.
Ip’s connection to Lingnan University began with his marriage. He married Wai-Tsuen Lei on the Lingnan campus in 1934. Wai-Tsuen was one of the first graduates of Lingnan University. She and her sister both taught music there.
After World War II Ip and his wife moved to Hong Kong. He established Hongkong Woodworks and Decorator Ltd. He also started Chi Keung Manufacturing Co. Ltd. Ip accumulated wealth through investments. He even wrote a book about stock price movement.
In 1983 Ip and his wife moved to Vancouver. He then embarked on a philanthropic mission. He aimed to connect his alma mater MIT with Lingnan. Lingnan University had been merged into Sun Yat-sen University. Ip became involved with Lingnan. He made his first donation in 1991.
Learning of the need for an MBA program Ip connected Lingnan with MIT’s Sloan School of Management. His donation of US 2.5 million dollars launched the International MBA program at Lingnan. He also helped establish the China Executive MBA program.
When the MBA program needed a home Ip donated HK 12 million dollars for the construction of Ip Po-ting Hall. Later he contributed another US 500000 dollars for a new MBA building. Ip served as honorary chairman and professor of Lingnan University College. He visited the school multiple times. His wife donated her life savings to faculty housing at Lingnan.
In 2006 the 98-year-old Ip visited Lingnan for the last time. He laid the foundation stone for the new MBA building. He earmarked US 1.7 million dollars from his estate to Lingnan. His total contributions exceeded HK 70 million dollars.
Ip’s philanthropy extended beyond Lingnan. He contributed to schools and a library in his native Huiyang. In Vancouver he established scholarships. He made annual contributions to the Victoria General Hospital and Cancer Society.
Despite his wealth Ip lived frugally. He preferred discount clothes and cheap meals. He flew economy class. Visitors to his home were surprised by his worn-out furniture. He contributed most of his wealth to charities. He focused on advancing education.
Ip maintained a youthful outlook and stayed active. He rose at 4 am every morning to practice yoga. He seldom visited the doctor. He even wrote a book on Preventive Medicine. In 2008 he passed away peacefully at the age of 99.
Ip Po-ting Hall stands as a symbol of his legacy. It represents his dedication to education. It also shows his generosity. It reminds us that one person can make a profound difference. His spirit lives on within these walls.