It was a year of many changes for the University, large and small, and this chapter spotlights a few of the most significant. All are events or milestones that have moved the University forward, expanded its profile and talent base, and set the scene for a flourishing future.

The University has always been associated with leadership in learning and teaching practices. The reason is simple: its ceaseless and unswerving dedication to innovation in these fields. Always exploring new ideas, new technologies, and new modes of effectiveness and efficiency, the University has continued to make significant strides forward in the quality of its learning and teaching initiatives over the past year.

More than ever, 'excellence' is a word that encapsulates the University's aspirations and its expectations. In response, students, staff and alumni have found new ways to demonstrate the quality of the education offered here, striving to excel across the entire spectrum of achievement. As this chapter shows, many came up trumps on a local, national and international scale over the past year.

In the lead-up to its change of name in September 2021, the University has been placing more focus than ever before on defining and supporting a flourishing research culture. Backed by increasing amounts of external funding, research being undertaken at the University is strongly oriented towards the practical needs of Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. Some of the most significant of its current applied research achievements are showcased in this chapter.

The University sees itself as an integral part of the wider society it serves. It is natural, therefore, that many of its activities and initiatives are community focused, and involve forging close connections with civic groups and community organizations, as well as notable individuals and businesses. The process is a two-way one, with collaborations not only opening up new learning opportunities for students but also giving the University the chance to reach out and serve the community in many practical ways.

The 2020–21 fiscal year was a year of adapting to and persevering in the face of challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live, interact and learn. It has forced every organization to review and adjust its modes of operation — and universities have not been exempt.