In Memory of Professor Chia-Wei Woo, Founding President of HKUST

Professor Chia-Wei Woo, who passed away on March 2, 2025, in San Francisco at the age of 87, was the founding President of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). A transformative figure, he reshaped Hong Kong’s academic landscape and championed its transition into a knowledge-based economy through scientific research.

Born in Shanghai on November 13, 1937, and raised in Hong Kong, Professor Woo earned his PhD in physics from Washington University in St. Louis. He began his academic career at Northwestern University where he quickly rose to Chair of Physics and Astronomy, before being asked to serve as Provost at the University of California at San Diego, Revelle College. In 1983, he became the first Chinese-American major university president, appointed to head San Francisco State University, and earned the key to San Francisco from Mayor Dianne Feinstein. In 1986, he returned to Hong Kong to lead the establishment of HKUST, which flourished under his leadership, embodying his mantra of “creating, not replicating.”

Professor Woo’s bold vision propelled HKUST into the ranks of the world’s top universities, and his proposal for a “Hong Kong Bay Area” laid the groundwork for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. He served on numerous advisory committees and was appointed to the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference in 1998.

A recipient of many accolades, including the Eleanor Roosevelt Humanitarian Award, Commander of the British Empire, HKSAR Gold Bauhinia Star, and Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur. After stepping down as President in 2001, he continued to serve as University President Emeritus and Senior Advisor, guiding successive generations of leaders. 

Professor Woo is survived by his beloved wife Yvonne, four children, and nine grandchildren. “The tree may grow tall, but its roots remain.” Professor Woo’s vision will forever guide us as we honour his memory by striving for greater heights.