The Remarkable Journey of Eugene Lim Tze Yang

In the vibrant world of Singapore's higher education landscape, few stories resonate as profoundly as that of Eugene Lim Tze Yang, known affectionately as Quentin to many. A pioneer alumnus of Nanyang University, Eugene's life exemplified the transformative power of resilience, community, and lifelong pursuit of excellence. His recent passing on April 10, 2026, at the age of 45, following a valiant battle with Stage 4 urothelial cancer, has left an indelible mark on the academic and running communities alike. As global universities grapple with student mental health and wellness, Eugene's legacy offers timeless lessons for today's scholars.

Born on June 2, 1980, in Ipoh, Malaysia, Eugene's early years were shaped by a strong educational foundation in Penang before he ventured to Singapore. He became one of the pioneer students in the newly established commerce faculty at Nanyang University, a landmark institution that symbolized Chinese-medium higher learning in post-independence Singapore. Established in 1956, Nanyang University represented ambition and opportunity for countless students from Southeast Asia, offering degrees in commerce, science, and arts until its merger with the University of Singapore in 1980 to form the National University of Singapore (NUS). Eugene's time there instilled values of perseverance and innovation that defined his career and personal triumphs.

Attending Nanyang University during its formative years exposed Eugene to a dynamic environment where students from diverse backgrounds collaborated amid rapid national development. The commerce faculty equipped him with practical business acumen, emphasizing entrepreneurship and global trade—skills that later propelled his professional path. Though details of his immediate post-graduation career remain private, Eugene transitioned into Singapore's bustling professional scene, balancing work with a burgeoning passion for running. This dual commitment mirrored the holistic development encouraged in Singapore's polytechnics and universities today, where extracurriculars like sports clubs foster well-rounded graduates.

From Campus Trails to Marathon Glory

Eugene's entry into the running world was no accident. Singapore's universities and polytechnics have long championed sports as integral to student life, with NUS and NTU boasting elite running teams. Eugene channeled his university-honed discipline into marathons, achieving sub-three-hour personal bests—a feat requiring meticulous training akin to academic rigor. He became captain of Adidas Runners Singapore for nine years, mentoring newcomers and embodying the leadership qualities nurtured in higher education classrooms.

In 2020, during pandemic lockdowns, Eugene ran a full marathon in his condo carpark, completing 1,200 U-turns for 42km. This ingenuity echoed the problem-solving mindset universities instill through group projects and research challenges. By co-founding The High Panthers run crew, he created a platform for fitness enthusiasts to raise funds for cancer causes, raising awareness much like campus societies organize charity drives. His role modeled how alumni contribute back to society, strengthening university networks worldwide.

The running community hailed him as a mentor and friend, with Adidas Singapore noting, "You were the heart of our community." This sentiment underscores how higher education alumni like Eugene bridge academia and real-world impact, inspiring current students to pursue passions beyond lecture halls.

Facing the Unthinkable: Cancer Diagnosis and Defiance

In June 2024, during a 50km charity run from Johor Bahru to Singapore, Eugene noticed deep red urine—a symptom persisting since 2020. A CT scan revealed a large tumour in his left kidney, biopsy confirming Stage 4 urothelial cancer, spread to lungs, neck, and beyond. Urothelial cancer, originating in urinary tract lining cells, affects fit individuals too, highlighting the need for university health programs to promote early screening among young adults.

Despite the prognosis, Eugene named his tumour "Caleb" and vowed to live intentionally. He underwent antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) treatments, then chemotherapy, enduring fatigue and clots while running four times weekly. His story aired on CNA's On The Red Dot, showcasing millennial Stage 4 fighters. "It’s not the pile of shit that defines who we are, but how we navigate through it," he said, a mindset universities seek to cultivate via resilience workshops.

Participating in Race Against Cancer and a Taipei half-marathon post-diagnosis, Eugene demonstrated that physical limits expand with mental fortitude—lessons applicable to academic pressures like thesis deadlines or exam seasons.

The Power of Community and Love in Adversity

The High Panthers and Adidas Runners rallied around Eugene, organizing runs in his honor. He modeled for Fashion for Cancer SG, turning vulnerability into visibility. On April 7, 2026, he married partner Sofie Chandra in hospital, a moment of joy amid pain. Sofie's Instagram tribute captured their bond: support through treatments strengthened family ties.

This reflects university values of community support, seen in peer mentoring and alumni associations. NUS, inheriting Nanyang's spirit, hosts wellness initiatives; Eugene's story amplifies calls for expanded mental health resources on campuses.

Photo by Sandy Millar on Unsplash

A Pioneer Alumnus's Enduring Lessons for Higher Education

Eugene's Nanyang University roots connected him to Singapore's higher ed evolution. As pioneer commerce student, he witnessed merger to NUS, symbolizing unity. His life post-graduation showed alumni impact: entrepreneurship via run crew, philanthropy via fundraising.

Statistics reveal early-onset cancers rising globally; universities like NUS integrate health education. Eugene's sub-3hr marathons during chemo inspire student-athletes balancing studies and sports.

Stakeholders—from NUS alumni to polytechnic lecturers—view him as embodiment of grit. Future programs could feature his story in orientation, promoting work-life balance.

Resilience: Bridging Academia and Personal Triumphs

Higher education demands resilience—Eugene embodied it. From Nanyang's rigorous commerce program to cancer's uncertainties, he adapted. Universities worldwide report rising student stress; his "take each day" philosophy offers actionable insight.

• Step 1: Acknowledge challenges without denial.
• Step 2: Build support networks like run crews or study groups.
• Step 3: Maintain routines for normalcy.
• Step 4: Focus on controllables, embrace uncertainty.

This framework aids thesis writers, athletes, anyone facing setbacks.

Alumni Networks and Philanthropy in Modern Universities

Eugene's High Panthers raised funds for 365 Cancer Prevention Society, mirroring alumni philanthropy at NUS. Global universities leverage alumni for endowments, mentorship. His story prompts enhanced wellness funding, peer support.

Implications: Campuses could host "Eugene Runs," blending fitness and reflection.

Challenges and Solutions for Student Health in Higher Ed

Cancer among young adults up 79% since 1990 globally; Singapore universities prioritize screenings. Eugene's delayed diagnosis underscores education needs.

Stakeholders advocate integrated wellness.

Photo by Mathias Reding on Unsplash

Future Outlook: Eugene's Vision for Tomorrow's Graduates

Eugene's legacy endures through inspired runners, donors. NUS could honor pioneers like him via scholarships for commerce students pursuing wellness careers. As AI reshapes jobs, his human resilience reminds: passion sustains.

Actionable insights: Join run clubs, prioritize health, give back. Eugene navigated life's marathon with grace, teaching higher ed's true measure: impact beyond degrees.