On Wednesday (28 February), Li Shengwu, associate professor of economics at Harvard University, enthusiastically shared the news on Twitter that he has been granted tenure at the esteemed institution.
Harvard University‘s decision to confer tenure upon Mr Li is a testament to his outstanding contributions in research, teaching, advising, mentoring, and service.
The university underscores that candidates for tenured positions must demonstrate scholarly achievement, impact on their field, intellectual leadership, and potential for future accomplishments.
In a series of tweets, the eldest son of Lee Hsien Yang (LHY) reflects on the importance of practising self-kindness and steering clear of overworking while navigating the challenges and mindset that come with being on the tenure track.
In managing his own well-being, the 39-year-old shares personal strategies such as incorporating long walks, breaks for video games, and preparing his own dinners into his routine.
“A lot of this job is being at peace with uncertainty. It’s about finding a process that works for you, and recognizing that insight arrives stochastically, in a way you can’t fully control.”
Tenured.
Now that it’s no longer tempting fate, let me say this: Be kind to yourself. It’s easy on the tenure track to work to the point of negative marginal return.
Focused work is hard. If you can work on a proof for four real hours in a day, that is a good day.
— Shengwu Li (@ShengwuLi) February 27, 2024
LHY: “Major academic milestone” for Shengwu
Commenting on his son’s achievement, Mr LHY took to his Facebook page on Thursday to express his commendation, describing it as a “major academic milestone.”
This accomplishment signifies that Shengwu will ascend to the position of a full professor at Harvard University.
Mr LHY further reflected on the significance of his son’s achievement, suggesting that it would have brought much joy to his late father-in-law, the distinguished Singaporean economist Lim Chong Yah, who passed away 8 July last year.
Additionally, Mr LHY shared an article underscoring the arduous nature of securing tenure at Harvard, noting that it is widely considered the “ultimate prize” for scholars, further highlighting the exceptional nature of Shengwu’s accomplishment.
“National pride”
The news undoubtedly stirred a sense of pride among Singaporeans, evident from the multitude of congratulatory messages flooding Mr Lee’s Facebook page, collectively expressing joy for Mr Li’s commendable achievement.
Many felt that Li Shengwu had brought honour to the country, especially to his grandparents and parents.
Some well-wishers went further to advise him not to be concerned about those who may feel envious, acknowledging that they simply cannot match Mr Li’s accomplishments.
M. Ravi, a prominent human rights lawyer, and Andrew Loh, co-founder of The Online Citizen, also conveyed their messages in response to the news.
Prominent figures in the Singaporean political landscape, such as former Singapore People’s Party (SPP) chairman Jose Raymond, Jeffrey Khoo, Deputy Organising Secretary of the Progress Singapore Party, Reform Party Chief Kenneth Jeyaretnam, and Ravi Philemon, the Secretary-General of RDU, joined in to extend their congratulatory messages to Mr Li.
Malik Aljunied, former Singapore Athletics (SA) executive director, shared his thoughts, recalling the pleasure of teaching Shengwu during his Raffles Institution days.
“Have always believed that he was born to achieve great things in life. He’s made all Singaporeans very proud of him. Wishing him all the best and hope he can come home one day, to be with his family and friends.”
Hopeful comments on Mr Li’s return to Singapore
Some comments expressed the hope that Mr Li could return to Singapore one day, contributing his talents to further enhance the country.
While applauding Mr Li’s significant achievement at Harvard University, some individuals lamented that this also signifies “a great loss to Singaporeans.”
They view it as Singapore’s loss, suggesting that Mr Li may find greater opportunities for success and impact beyond the confines of this small city-state.
There’s a shared sentiment that he has the potential to achieve even greater things in life beyond the borders of Singapore.
Self-exile following disputes with Singapore’s AGC
Before securing tenure at Havard, Mr Li was awarded the Sloan Research Fellowship for 2023, a testament to his potential to revolutionize the field of economics.
The fellowship, which includes a two-year, US$75,000 grant, supports early-career researchers in various disciplines. Li’s selection for this fellowship highlights his research accomplishments and creativity.
Mr Li’s career is decorated with numerous accolades, including the Exeter Prize for his significant contributions to Experimental Economics, Behavioural Economics, and Decision Theory.
His work has been recognized by Nobel laureates, and he is a fellow at the prestigious Harvard Society of Fellows, further affirming his status as a leading thinker in economics.
Despite his academic success, Mr Li, who is also the estranged nephew of Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, has faced legal challenges in Singapore.
After a series of disputes with the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) over a private Facebook post, Li chose self-exile.
In 2020, he was found guilty of contempt of court and fined S$15,000.
Mr Li has been vocal about his criticisms of the AGC and the Singaporean government, reflecting on his grandfather, Lee Kuan Yew’s values, and the impact of family disputes on his life.
Mr Li’s mother, Mrs Lee Suet Fern, has also faced legal scrutiny from the AGC, resulting in a suspension from practising law. Additionally, both of his parents have been publicly intimidated by the Singapore authorities over allegations related to legal proceedings.
In light of his tenure achievement, Mr Li remarked on the irony of achieving such a significant milestone while having fled Singapore due to his outspokenness.
While on the tenure track, I had to flee a small authoritarian regime 🇸🇬 because I spoke my mind on social media. Tenure doesn’t change anything. You’ve seen the real me all along.
— Shengwu Li (@ShengwuLi) February 28, 2024
Mr Li’s commitment to speaking his mind remains unchanged, as does the support of the academic and scientific community for his work.
Despite the challenges he faces, Mr Li’s academic journey continues to inspire and influence the field of economics worldwide.