Chinese philanthropist commits to Faculty of Medicine student support
Published: August 16, 2013
Catharine Whiteside, dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto, announced a commitment by Zhang Bin, chairman of Chinese media network Millennium Golden Eagle International, to support U of T medical students in honour of the legacy of Norman Bethune, a Faculty of Medicine graduate known for his medical service during the Second Sino-Japanese War.
“Dr. Bethune showed dedication to community service and innovation,” said Dean Whiteside, vice-provost of Relations with Health Care Institutions. “Through Mr. Zhang’s commitment we are encouraging our students to exemplify Dr. Bethune’s characteristics in their educational pursuits and professional lives.”
As an international champion of art and culture, Zhang recognizes the need to cultivate skills and advanced learning. His support underscores the Faculty’s commitment to excellence in education as outlined in its campaign, which is part of the University of Toronto Boundless campaign.
Bethune is a well-known symbol of U of T’s long relationship with China. A graduate of the Faculty of Medicine, Bethune travelled to China in 1938 where he operated on war casualties and trained Chinese doctors and paramedics. After Bethune’s death in 1939, Chairman Mao Zedong wrote “In Memory of Norman Bethune,” in which he praised the doctor for his dedication to the Chinese people.
To commemorate the 75th anniversary of Bethune’s arrival in China, the Faculty will host a series of events starting this fall with an alumni event to honour the legacy of Norman Bethune at the Beijing Four Seasons on November 22, 2013.
