[24 January 2005]
SMU PATRON’S DAY AND THE LAUNCH OF THE SMU CAMPUS RADIO

Singapore Management University (SMU) celebrates Patron's Day on 24 January 2005. This event is graced by the distinguished presence of its Patron, President S R Nathan. It is our Fifth Patron's Day celebration and it is the last time we will be celebrating Patron's Day at the Bukit Timah Campus.

A major highlight of the day will be the Launch of the SMU Campus Radio by President S R Nathan. The SMU Campus Radio is fully conceptualized and developed by Broadcast and Entertainment (BE), a SMU student run organization. The Campus Radio will be:

• a platform for aspiring radio broadcasters to develop themselves character-wise and professionally
• an avenue for talents to shine
• a two-way communication channel between the student population and the school management team

At every Patron's Day, we recognize the student achievements and contributions over the past year. Our SMU University Student Life Awards will be given out. These awards are presented in recognition of the outstanding achievements and contributions made by SMU students and CCA groups in enhancing the vibrancy to student life.

We will also be witnessing the investiture of our Peer Helpers. In developing opportunities for our students to cultivate their leadership skills and encourage a culture of caring and sharing, SMU Peer Helper's program provides students with excellent opportunities to enhance their personal development and growth through service to the University and to fellow students. It allows students to display a strong community spirit and social responsibility. Ultimately, skills learnt through the program will enable our Peer Helpers to perform tasks typically undertaken by professionals and advance their maturation process into effective contributors to society and the workplace.

In giving back to the community, our students have also visited countries like Myanmar and East Timor and have worked with the communities on the ground, learning and sharing many rewarding experiences with the locals. Come and share their experiences and learn more about our international service learning projects.

This being our last year of celebrating Patron's Day at the Bukit Timah campus, it is an especially poignant day for us. While we will leave much behind, we have much more to look forward to in our new City Campus.

Still, Patron's Day is a day for celebration. The irrepressible SMU spirit and energy will be displayed in its fullest in a carnival of activities organized by our students. From student performances, tantalizing bazaars and food stalls, rock concerts and even an appearance by the Singapore idols, the infectious and vibrant SMU life is very much on showcase.