40 years of NUS Kent Ridge Hall

Guests were treated to lively performances including dances

When NUS Kent Ridge Hall first unofficially opened in 1979, it carried the name King Edward Hall at Kent Ridge. It was only later on, in 1985, that the Hall embraced a new name, Kent Ridge Hall — a now-familiar name that reminds many of its strong culture and eventful Hall life. This year, Kent Ridge Hall celebrates its 40th anniversary with the theme “Remembering the Past, Living the Future”, a timely reminder to look back upon their past successes while striving for more in the future.

The year-long celebration kickstarted with the Hall’s very own carnival, Krisneyland! Held on the familiar grounds of the Hall on 11 January, residents, alumni and their families came together to celebrate this significant milestone. With over 15 carnival rides and game booths, as well as a wide range of popular arcade games, Krisneyland is the first carnival of its scale that has been organized by a hall of residence.

Carnival games included a dunking machine

On top of the fun-filled activities, there were also performances by the talented culture groups and alumni. Most significantly, the first ever Kent Ridge Hall Mascot was unveiled — a wolf. The Kent Ridge Hall wolf represents the tenacity of Kent Ridgeans, as the residents are affectionately called. It also symbolises the Kent Ridge Hall Family and how Kent Ridgeans stick together through thick and thin, like a wolf pack. The founding Hall Master Dr Lee Soo Ann, and past Hall Masters and Resident Fellows, were also there to celebrate this momentous occasion.

Ten former Junior Common Room Committee (JCRC) Presidents and Vice Presidents also attended the event, sharing some of their fondest memories while at Kent Ridge Hall. Among which was NUS Engineering alumnus Mr Harry Lim, the 16th Vice-President, who recounted a very personal connection to Kent Ridge Hall. “I got to meet my wife here and actually proposed to her in Kent Ridge Hall after we graduated,” he said.    

KR Hall alumni with the new mascot

Next up, Kent Ridge Hall will be organising “KR As One”, an event to create a lasting token for the Hall, and will be hosting its very own Gala Dinner in August. Not only celebrative, these events also aim to bring current residents and the alumni closer together.

By NUS Kent Ridge Hall