Legacy of Excellence: Chen Yuguang and Wu Yifang – Pioneering Chinese University Presidents of the 20th Century

Chen Yuguang 陈裕光校长 (left) and Wu Yifang 吴贻芳校长 (right)

Join us for an illuminating lecture that not only delves into the remarkable lives and legacies of two distinguished Chinese university presidents from the 20th century, Chen Yuguang and Wu Yifang, but also explores the rich history and architectural characteristics of the universities they led. These two visionary leaders left an indelible mark on the educational landscape of China, and their contributions continue to inspire generations.

Chen Yuguang (1883-1989), the longest-serving president of Nanking University and Wu Yifang (1883-1985), the longest-serving president of Ginling College, both located in the then capital city of Nanjing. shared a unique journey of leadership and dedication. Despite the tumultuous times they lived through, both were steadfast in their commitment to advancing education in China.

Chen Yuguang, who earned his Ph.D. from Columbia University, not only brought back invaluable knowledge but was also recognized with a medal of honor from Columbia for excellence. His tireless efforts in developing Nanking University and his influence in shaping Chinese higher education make him an iconic figure in the field.

Wu Yifang, a trailblazing scholar who earned her Ph.D. from the University of Michigan, earned the fitting accolade from President Franklin D. Roosevelt as the “Goddess of Wisdom” in recognition of her unwavering commitment to women’s education and her remarkable contributions to the development of Ginling College. In a historic moment, Wu Yifang was one of only four women who signed the UN Charter in 1945, underscoring her remarkable global influence and enduring dedication to women’s rights and education. It is also worth highlighting that Wu Yifang made a significant visit to China Institute in New York City during the 1940s. Her advocacy for gender equality in education was notably ahead of its time and continues to be celebrated and emulated to this day.

Nanjing University

In addition to their extraordinary accomplishments, our speaker, Prof. Zhao Feifei, will provide a fascinating insight into the history of these two prestigious institutions. Nanking University, founded in 1902, boasts a storied past that reflects the dynamic evolution of Chinese higher education. Learn about its origins, transformation, and its pivotal role in shaping the intellectual landscape of China. Furthermore, discover the architectural characteristics of this historic institution that have been preserved and cherished for generations.

Nanjing Normal University, formerly Ginling College

Ginling College, with its roots dating back to 1915, has a remarkable history of its own. It played a pioneering role in women’s education and empowerment in China. Our speaker will delve into the college’s historical journey, the challenges it overcame, and its lasting impact on women’s education. Explore the architectural beauty and unique features that adorn Ginling College’s campus, offering a visual journey through time and space.

Moreover, this year marks the 130th anniversary of the birth of both Chen and Wu, making this lecture a fitting tribute to their enduring legacies and the institutions they guided.

民国时期南京有两所教会大学——金陵大学和金陵女子大学，当时流传着“金男大，金女大，男大当婚，女大当嫁”的歌谣，说明了两校密切的关系。两所教会大学的校长陈裕光和吴贻芳也存在许多共同点，两人是同龄，都生于1893年，都曾毕业于各自执掌的大学，都曾留学美国获得博士学位，都是中国教会大学的第一任华人校长，而且任职时间都长达20多年。政权革故鼎新之际，他们都

选择不迁校，毅然留下来并为新中国的教育、科学事业贡献毕生心血。

两位大学校长既熟悉西方基督教精神，又深谙中国社会传统之道，他们身上既富有基督徒的博爱品质，又富有中国传统知识分子的家国情怀，这种“中西混血”一方面使他们受到中西双方的青睐，另一方面也时刻受到中西价值观冲突的考验。沟通中西、博采众长，致力于中国教育、文化的发展，他们的努力不仅使教会大学在中国高等教育史上占有一席之地，也使其自身在教育史上留下了浓重的一笔。

值两位著名校长诞辰130周年之际，华美人文学会特邀陈裕光、吴贻芳研究者赵飞飞教授于美东时间11月11日晚8时至9时半（北京时间11月12日上午9时至10时半）做“金陵二杰——陈裕光与吴贻芳”在线讲座，讲述两位大学校长的生平、建树、以及他们如何以自己独特的教育理念，将金大和金女大办成蜚声中外的著名学府。赵教授还将介绍金陵大学和金陵女子大学的发展史和校园建筑特点。