In the first episode of SMU Impact Stories, Professor Lily Kong, President of Singapore Management University, reflects on her journey from cultural geographer to university leader. As the first Singaporean woman to head a university in Singapore, she shares what it means to lead with conviction, champion inclusive education, and shape a university that is globally respected and deeply connected to society. Her story reveals how SMU brings together education, research and purpose to empower future-ready graduates, build meaningful partnerships, and drive positive change across Asia and beyond. Learn more about SMU: https://sgsmu.com/impact-lilykong --- Video Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:17 Refreshing our vision 01:52 Cultivating a culture of lifelong learning 02:18 Impact that multiplies 03:13 Collaboration and community --- *About the SMU Impact Stories series* The SMU Impact Stories series spotlights the journeys of our faculty, alumni, students, and partners who are driving positive change through education, research and community engagement. Each story offers a window into the values that define Singapore Management University — from academic excellence and inclusive leadership to real-world impact and global relevance. Explore more SMU Impact Stories at https://sgsmu.com/3LfqP43 and discover how SMU is creating impact across communities, research, partnerships and more at https://sgsmu.com/impactstories #SGSMU #LilyKong #SGSMUImpactStory #HigherEducation #WomenInLeadership #ResearchThatMatters #UniversityLeadership #SGSMUStories