Mr Johnny Tan (Science ’82) has been a steadfast pillar of the National University of Singapore Society (NUSS) since joining in 1983, and a transformative force in its leadership from 2003 onwards. Over 22 years on the NUSS Management Committee (MC) — including terms as Vice President (2005–2008) and President (2008–2012) — Mr Tan played a defining role in shaping the Society’s strategic growth, deepening member engagement, and forging an enduring partnership with NUS.
Strengthening NUSS from Within
As President of NUSS from 2008 to 2012, Mr Johnny Tan spearheaded a series of landmark developments that elevated the Society’s physical footprint and strategic direction. Together with Mr Lai Kim Seng, NUSS Past President (2001–2005), Mr Tan was instrumental in the development of the Alumni Complex — comprising the Shaw Foundation Alumni House and Kent Ridge Guild House — as well as the establishment of new Guild Houses at Suntec City, Bukit Timah, and Mandalay, significantly enhancing the member experience.
Beyond physical amenities, Mr Tan emphasised the need to nurture the Mind and the Soul — ensuring that Body, Mind, and Soul grow in harmony. The Mind reflects members’ well-being through sports, culture, and intellectual discourse; the Soul represents a higher purpose of service, giving, and meaningful contributions to NUS and the wider community.
For his contributions in strengthening ties between NUSS and NUS, and advancing alumni engagement, Mr Tan was conferred the NUS Distinguished Alumni Service Award in 2009.
Advancing Education and Community Impact
Mr Tan’s leadership extended beyond NUSS. Together with Mr David Ho, who succeeded him as NUSS President (2012–2016), they initiated the Alumni Bursary Fund Campaign to foster a culture of alumni giving and championed the NUSS-NUS Student Mentorship Programme to empower undergraduates through guidance and support. Since 2013, NUSS has pledged $250,000 annually to the Fund. To date, the campaign has raised over $30 million (before government matching), supporting financially disadvantaged students and catalysing wider philanthropic participation.
These initiatives are part of a broader legacy of service by Mr Tan, an NUS Science graduate who has contributed actively to the University and its alumni community for over two decades.
As Co-Chairperson of the NUS Alumni Advisory Board (AAB), he continued to lead impactful initiatives with lasting social value. In 2022, alongside fellow AAB member Mr Ow Tai Zhi, he conceived the Plant-It-Forward Challenge — a symbolic and sustainable fundraising initiative. For every $1,000 donated to the Enhanced Financial Aid Scheme (EFAS), NUS plants a tree on campus. Since its launch in 2023, the campaign has planted more than 1,000 trees and raised over $1 million — a lasting testament to inclusive education and environmental stewardship.
A Legacy That Inspires
In 2025, Mr Tan stepped down from the Management Committee after 22 years, beginning a new chapter as a member of the NUSS Advisory Panel. He continues to offer his institutional memory, thoughtful counsel, and strategic insight to guide the Society’s long-term vision. Known for his humility and warmth, Mr Tan remains a bridge across generations — fostering connection, community, and continuity.
Through decades of service, mentorship, and collaboration, Mr Johnny Tan has left an indelible mark on NUSS, NUS, and the wider alumni community. His legacy is not only measured in buildings or funds raised — but in lives touched, values upheld, and a community strengthened through shared purpose.
As he concludes over two decades of dedicated service to NUSS, Mr Tan shares candid reflections on leadership, purpose, and what it truly means to give back.
Q: What were some of the defining moments during your presidency from 2008 to 2012?
A: One of the earliest milestones in our journey was the formation of the NUSS Advisory Panel in 2008, followed by the establishment of the NUSS Patron, with Mr S R Nathan as the inaugural Patron in 2009. That same year, we celebrated a landmark moment with the official opening of the Alumni Complex — comprising the revamped Kent Ridge Guild House and Shaw Foundation Alumni House — graced by Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew.
There were other notable milestones during this period, including the establishment of the Bukit Timah Guild House on the Bukit Timah Campus to complement and support our expanding presence. We also strengthened our financial position and expanded our membership by over 3,000, crossing the historic 15,000 mark under the leadership of then-Membership Sub-Committee Chairperson, Mr Edward S Tay. In 2010, we introduced the NUSS Distinguished and Outstanding Member Awards, and in the following year, launched the NUSS Endowment Fund for Student Advancement. 2011 also marked the honour of conferring Honorary Membership on Minister Mentor Lee.
In 2010, we launched NUSS Groceries on Wheels, delivering essentials to low-income and home-bound residents. The initiative entered the Singapore Book of Records that year for organising the largest convoy of vehicles distributing grocery bags to underprivileged households.
These milestones marked a period of strategic growth, increased public profile, and deeper community engagement for the Society.
Q: How has NUSS evolved over the years, and what role did you play in shaping that change?
A: NUSS has come a long way from its humble beginnings. Every predecessor, committee member, and staff — past and present — has played a part in shaping what the Society is today. While we’ve made significant progress, one thing remains constant: our mission to serve the interests of our members, NUS, and the wider graduate community. In everything we do — and in all that I do — that mission continues to guide us.
Q: Initiatives like the Plant-It-Forward Challenge, Groceries on Wheels, and the NUS Alumni Bursary Fund reflect a deep commitment to community and student support. What inspired this focus?
A: As the foremost graduate society, we must go beyond providing physical amenities. We must also nurture the Mind and the Soul, ensuring that all three aspects — Body, Mind, and Soul — grow in harmony. The Mind reflects our members’ well-being, encompassing sports, recreation, cultural enrichment, and intellectual discourse. The Soul speaks to our higher calling — one of service, giving, and uplifting others, while supporting NUS and contributing meaningfully to the wider community.
Q: What advice would you give to younger alumni stepping into leadership or volunteer roles within NUSS?
A: The heart must be at the right place! Serve sincerely — not just with your mind, but with your heart. Learn to work with all kinds of people, including the difficult ones. Every experience is an opportunity to grow and improve the community. And above all, bring and maintain positive energy to everything you do.
Q: What has been the driving force behind your commitment over these years?
A: People. My own journey has been shaped by those who gave their time, offered wisdom, or simply lent a listening ear. Good people are the lifeblood of our society. I see it as my mission to inspire others, build teams, and foster a spirit of collaboration that moves us forward together.
Q: Is there a quote or mindset that has guided you throughout your leadership journey?
A: Always welcome ideas. The more we have, the better our chances of choosing the right one. Doing the right things is important but doing them right is what truly makes the difference. And work with everyone — including the difficult ones. Lastly, I often share this with fellow MC members: whatever we do or decide must be meaningful and sustainable — lasting beyond our time on the Committee.
