On the morning of September 20, 2025, as Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) counted down 200 days to its 130th anniversary, the Life Science and Technology College witnessed a significant and heartwarming event - the signing ceremony for the "Lin Jian Academic Fund" donation. Lin Jian, a doctoral alumnus from the Class of 2010 and the Chairman of Jiangsu Meitong Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., signed an agreement to donate funds specifically to support the college in hosting high-level academic conferences, offering a meaningful tribute to the university's upcoming centennial and sesquicentennial celebrations.
During the signing ceremony, Lin Jian recalled with deep emotion his academic journey at SJTU. He mentioned that he had received guidance and support from numerous mentors during his studies, experiences that not only laid a solid foundation for his future career but also instilled in him a profound sense of gratitude. Without using flowery language, he simply stated, "My alma mater gave me a starting point, and I want to help more fellow students go further," a sentiment that resonated deeply with everyone present, allowing them to truly feel the power behind the phrase "repaying kindness by remembering its source."
In the afternoon, the Life Science and Technology College held a donation and exchange seminar. Dean Zhang Yan expressed his heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the college for Lin Jian's generous donation. He emphasized that Lin Jian's donation of 1.3 million yuan to establish the "Lin Jian Academic Fund" for supporting high-level academic conferences was not merely a financial contribution but also a heavy trust and expectation. This gesture reflected the alumni's emphasis on the college's development and provided strong support for enhancing the college's academic influence.
Lin Jian remarked in his speech, "My alma mater is where my scientific research dreams took flight, and the meticulous guidance from my mentor, Professor Lin Zhixin, has benefited me throughout my life. Today, being able to give back to my alma mater with this modest contribution is a great honor for me." He expressed his hope that through this donation, he could repay the nurturing he received from the college and support the continuous development of life sciences.
Faculty representatives Tong Yaojun and Wei Ting delivered reports on the college's collaborations with top international journals and research group-enterprise scientific research partnerships, respectively. These presentations showcased the college's active explorations in cutting-edge scientific research and industry-university integration, as well as its practical actions in supporting the development of alumni enterprises.
During the interactive exchange session, Lin Jian, along with other guests, engaged in lively discussions with teachers and students, addressing questions raised by the students regarding university-enterprise cooperation. As a token of respect, student representatives presented Lin Jian with a portrait, expressing their admiration for their senior alumnus.
The event concluded on a solemn yet warm note, with all alumni, guests, and faculty and students taking a group photo to commemorate the occasion.