Over 50 <\/strong>family and friends gathered for the wake of National University of Singapore\u2019s (NUS) vice provost of student life Leong Ching, while many shared fond memories of the behavioural public policy professor online.<\/p>\n According to Lianhe Zaobao, it is understood that Leong was admitted to hospital on Oct 30 after a stroke<\/a>.<\/p>\n The 57-year-old died on Nov 6, with many public figures such as veteran diplomat Tommy Koh, Education Minister Desmond Lee, and Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng paying tribute to the former journalist and editor<\/a>.<\/p>\n Senior Minister K. Shanmugam also shared in his tribute post that she was \u201cjust promoted to a full Professor\u201d.<\/p>\n When Stomp spoke to Leong\u2019s family members at the wake on Nov 7, they declined to comment.<\/p>\n STOMP PHOTO: ETHEL TSENG<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n In a letter to the NUS community, NUS president Tan Eng Chye said Leong was a \u201cdistinguished scholar, dedicated leader, and valued member of the NUS community\u201d.<\/p>\n Her research in behavioural economics helped break new ground in understanding how human behaviour, narratives, and perceptions shape public policy decisions.<\/p>\n Tan also highlighted her contributions to water policy, with Oxford University Press set to publish a monograph on her work.<\/p>\n Beyond her academic contributions, Leong was a passionate advocate for students\u2019 personal development, having helped create a smoother transition for first-year students and more opportunities for students to explore interests beyond the classroom.<\/p>\n Students and colleagues<\/a> were also invited to share their memories of Leong on a virtual tribute wall<\/a>.<\/p>\n Several heartfelt messages poured in, such as one alumnus who described Leong as an \u201camazing soul and warm personality\u201d, while another said Leong\u2019s kindness \u201cchanged the course\u201d of their life.<\/p>\n \u201cProf Ching is one of those with a gentle soul and a kind heart. Her presence calms you and reassures you, even without saying much,\u201d a former student wrote.<\/p>\n Colleagues also remembered her as an educator who brought out the best in her students.<\/p>\n A staff member said she was a \u201cfierce advocate for students\u201d who taught them in an \u201celoquent and unforgettable way\u201d.<\/p>\n \u201cFull of admiration for Ching\u2019s razor sharp mind, ability to navigate complex issues and frame arguments, and her deep sense of empathy. She will be missed by so many,\u201d a staff member wrote.<\/p>\n Have something to say? Join in!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n Explore more on these topics<\/p>\n<\/div>\n See something interesting? Contribute<\/a> your story to us.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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\u2018Distinguished scholar, dedicated leader, and valued member of the NUS community\u2019<\/h2>\n
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