Henry Wong, MD ’73, and the late Sylvia Wong, BA ’69, have made a transformative $1-million donation to McMaster University’s Faculty of Health Sciences, as reported by McMaster University Daily News. This significant gift to the Dean’s Priorities Fund will enable the faculty to seize emerging opportunities in health education and research, fostering innovation and excellence.
The Wongs’ connection to McMaster began during their student years, where they met and later married. Over nearly 35 years, they have been unwavering supporters of the university, with this recent donation being one of the largest unrestricted gifts in the faculty’s history.
Reflecting on their time at McMaster, Dr. Wong shared, “McMaster is a special place for us. It shaped us in many ways, and we want to give back to help others succeed as we did.”
In recognition of their enduring commitment, two significant spaces have been named in their honor:
- Dr. Henry and Mrs. Sylvia Wong Lobby at the David Braley Health Sciences Centre, a prominent area above the main entrance in downtown Hamilton.
- Dr. Henry and Mrs. Sylvia Wong Learning Commons at the Faculty of Health Sciences Library, a meaningful tribute given Sylvia’s role as the former chief of the periodicals department and Henry’s time spent studying there as a medical student.
Beyond their contributions to McMaster, the Wongs have been dedicated philanthropists in health care, children’s welfare, and education, supporting institutions such as St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Stockton, California, and educational initiatives in Beijing. Their active involvement in the Chinese Cultural Society of Stockton earned them Citizen of the Year awards for their community contributions.
Married for 55 years, Henry and Sylvia Wong have left an indelible mark on their alma mater. Their legacy will continue to benefit future generations of scholars, researchers, and patients, embodying a commitment to exceptional care and world-class education.
Original Article
- McMaster University Daily News: $1M alumni gift from Henry and the late Sylvia Wong fuels advancements in health sciences (January 9, 2025)