On May 3, 2025, Mr.Wu Minwen, Chairman of Sensegain Asset Management Group participated in the event organized by the Peking University Southern California Alumni Association. Alumni of Peking University and Chinese elites from all walks of life gathered together to share their friendship and discuss the future. During the event, Chairman Wu Minwen was invited to deliver a speech during the dinner banquet.
1. Peking University is a bridge for the nation to reach the future.
The history of Peking University can be traced back to the period of the Hundred Days' Reform in 1898. All the once-famous people and significant events have vanished, but the Imperial University of Peking, established at that time, has survived and thrived. This is the origin of Peking University, closely linked to the modernization reform in China, representing the ideal of the reformists to "enlighten the people and cultivate talents", and marking a milestone in China's modern education reform.
During the New Culture Movement, Peking University championed the principles of "Democracy" and "Science," employing ideological liberation as a powerful tool to break the shackles of ignorance and conservatism, and to initiate the enlightenment of modern China. Prior to the full-scale outbreak of the War of Resistance, the youthful students of Peking University fervently participated in the December 9th Movement, arousing the survival consciousness of the entire nation. After the founding of the People's Republic of China and up to the period of reform and opening up, Peking University, guided by the vision of "Revitalizing China," remained at the forefront of time, actively engaging in national development efforts and making significant contributions to China's progress and advancement. Today, Peking University continues this legacy, striving for excellence in scientific and technological innovation, actively contributing to social services, and collaborating wholeheartedly in global governance.
Peking University resonates with the times, rooted in the nation while embracing the world; it preserves culture and awakens thought. It serves as a bridge connecting the past, the present and the future, and also as a spiritual force linking you, me and him.
2. Peking University is a pioneering force in China's engagement with the global community.
Since the launch of China's reform and opening-up policy, numerous students from Peking University, fueled by their insatiable thirst for knowledge and profound curiosity about the world, have traveled overseas to pursue higher education in the United States. Over successive generations, Peking University alumni have excelled in their respective fields, with many emerging as leaders and key contributors across various industries. Some of them are gathered here today, while others continue to dedicate themselves tirelessly in laboratories and offices. Their accomplishments extend beyond personal and familial significance, profoundly impacting society at large and, indeed, contributing meaningfully to the advancement of humanity.
The Peking University Southern California Alumni Association was established in 1985 and has now reached its 40th anniversary. With over 4,000 alumni, it serves as a bridge and bond for maintaining alumni relations and promoting exchanges between China and the West. Besides organizing activities for its own alumni, the association also initiated the formation of the Southern California Chinese University Alumni Association Alliance, which currently involves more than 80 universities. This alliance provides a platform for alumni from various universities in Southern California to help each other and share information, jointly inheriting Chinese culture and integrating into the global community. It plays a significant role in promoting friendly cooperation between China and the United States and the peaceful development of the world.
Peking University has a song titled "Weiming Lake is an Ocean." The significance of Peking University extends far beyond the transmission of knowledge. It embodies the passion and aspirations of countless young individuals, transcending time and borders, and upholding values such as peace, friendship, dedication, and inclusiveness. With these ideals, Peking University continues to engage with the world and create enduring legacies.
3. Peking University is an indelible mark of ceaseless striving in life.
During our childhood, Peking University was a seed planted in our hearts through our textbooks; in our teenage years, it became a lighthouse illuminating our dreams; in our youth, it manifested as Weiming Lake and Boya Tower where we held books and absorbed knowledge in our daily life. In middle age, Peking University is etched upon our faces. Regardless of where in the world we may be, the title of "Peking University alumnus" serves as an esteemed badge of honor. I recall an occasion when the Southern California Chinese University Alumni Association Alliance organized a hiking event at Chino Hills State Park, during which we encountered alumni from Shandong University. To our surprise, the Shandong University alumni instantly recognized us as Peking University graduates. Indeed, Peking University is an indelible mark inscribed on our faces and engraved in our hearts, preserving the memories of our vibrant years and youthful aspirations, destined to remain with us. A person's life is ultimately a mixture of praise and criticism, but those parts associated with Peking University will always shine brightly.
Peking University will forever embody youthfulness. The students on campus are full of vigor and vitality, while those of us who have graduated must strive to maintain our intellectual acumen and passion for life. Every gathering is a meeting of memories. I am grateful to have participated in the 40th anniversary gathering of the Peking University Southern California Alumni Association. May life never cease and always move forward. Looking forward to our next gathering at the 50th, 60th, 70th, and 80th anniversaries!
