A Heartfelt Return: Shelby and Gale Davis, Lifelong UWC Patrons, Visit LPCUWC

The LPCUWC community was privileged to welcome back UWC's longstanding patrons and visionary philanthropists, Mr Shelby and Mrs Gale Davis, to our campus on 11 December. Accompanied by Mr Jacob Mnookin, Director of Partnership & Innovation at the Davis UWC Scholars Program, the momentous occasion was a day filled with meaningful connections and a shared celebration of the UWC mission they have generously supported for decades.

The day began with a vibrant welcome performance by the  African Drumming Quan Cai (QC) Group at College House, creating an energetic and celebratory atmosphere. The Davis team then joined Board Chairman Mr Anthony Tong and the College’s senior leadership team for a breakfast chat, where they heard about their teaching journey at LPC.

After the chat, the team went on a comprehensive campus tour led by our Dare to Dream and Davis Scholars. The scholars showcased the College’s new facilities, including the assembly hall, sports hall, and solar panels, highlighting the campus developments since the Davises' last visits in 2006 and 2013.

A morning highlight was a series of student performances in the courtyard, where Shelby, Gale, and Jacob enjoyed a spectacular showcase by our Cultural Evenings groups.  The celebration commenced with our signature lion dance and included a wide range of cultural performances, embodying the vibrant diversity that defines LPCUWC. The guests then continued into the classrooms, where the team engaged directly with our teachers and students during Marine Science, Language, and Chemistry lessons.

After the campus tour, the Davis team joined a barbecue lunch back at College House,  meeting with our scholars, teachers, and UWC alumni to exchange personal UWC stories and experiences.

Following the lunch, Principal Spencer presented the latest updates from LPCUWC. The presentation culminated in a deeply moving video message from our current Dare to Dream and Davis scholars, as well as alumni who expressed their profound gratitude to Shelby and Gale for the generosity that has shaped their futures. The heartfelt messages moved Shelby to tears, underscoring the profound impact of their philanthropy. The scholars also presented a signed thank-you card as a token of the community's appreciation.

Closing the day was an evening dinner reception that began with a beautiful pipa performance by Year 1 student Miumiu and a moving Mandarin song sung by Year 2 student Leda from Bulgaria. The Davis team also engaged with our Board Members and alumni, strengthening bonds within the LPCUWC community.

The Davis team departed with warm smiles, expressing their sincere thanks for the hospitality and the chance to witness firsthand the thriving community their support has helped build.