Taking the Long View: Dr. Nancy E. Chapman and the Nancy E. Chapman Fund

 

Dr. Nancy E. Chapman’s journey with the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library began during her freshman year at Yale University, where she studied history. Established in 1963 and housing 180,000 volumes of rare books and manuscripts – from ancient papyrus to the Gutenberg Bible – the Beinecke Library naturally captivated the fascination of the budding historia, who was already learning to take the long view.

Reflecting on her distinguished tenure at the United Board – first as a trustee starting in 2003 and later as president from 2011 to 2023 – Nancy took the long view and emphasized her deep appreciation for the enduring impact of the United Board’s programs. “I was always most gratified to see clear evidence of the impact of ongoing programs and new initiatives,” she shared, “which in time almost always affirmed the value of the United Board’s contributions.”

 

A leader’s passion for leadership development

Nancy’s passion for leadership development programs was unmistakable. She saw these initiatives as transformative, empowering individuals to realize their  potential as leaders while at the same time fostering institutional growth. “I viewed them as programs that facilitated growth, liberating not just for individuals but also transformative for institutions,” she remarked.

During visits to Christian colleges across Asia, Nancy often found herself in conference rooms adorned with portraits of past presidents or rectors. These portraits told a story of institutional evolution – from stern-looking paternal figures in the early years to more gender-diverse and relatable leadership today. Such moments gave Nancy a profound sense of continuity as she reflected on the work of the United Board and its Asian partners over time.

The return of the native

Retirement has brought a welcome shift in Nancy’s daily life. After decades of tireless work and extensive travels, she now enjoys a slower pace, immersing herself in her local community. Her love for nature has blossomed, allowing her more time to tend to her garden and explore natural landscapes elsewhere. “I simply have more time to spend in the natural world,” she noted. She loves hearing the trees rustle and the birds chirp, and a caterpillar losing its way on her window can easily detain her attention. In observing and reflecting on the rhythm and workings of the natural word, Nancy’s long-term perspective as a historian has stretched over to a naturalist’s or geologist’s horizon.

In the serenity of retired life, sound is more fugue than fury. Nancy has rekindled her passion for playing the violin – and instrument she had laid aside for nearly 40 years. “I’ve just about regained the level I was at when I stopped playing all those years ago,” she said with infectious joy, delighting in sharing music with family and friends.

Rooted in New Haven, Nancy remains connected to Yale and its treasures, including the Beinecke Library. She continues to visit its exhibits and digital portal, often introducing friends and first-time visitors to Yale or New Haven to this extraordinary repository of human history and knowledge.

 

Honoring a legacy: the Nancy E. Chapman Fund

Dr. Christian Murck, former board chair, described Nancy’s long service at the United Board as characterized by “effective leadership, notable accomplishments, and consistent focus on the United Board’s mission and values.” To honor her legacy, the Nancy E. Chapman Fund has been established.

The fund aims to foster collaboration among educational institutions through research, pedagogy, and exchanges. It seeks to expand faculty development and leadership initiatives in underserved and post-conflict areas such as Eastern Indonesia, Northeast India, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar. In addition, the fund enhances leadership development programs in South and Southeast Asia, and supports strategic initiatives including capacity-building for community colleges in Sri Lanka.

All these are very close to Nancy’s heart and align with her values and the United Board’s mission. “I’m deeply humbled that this fund bears my name,” Nancy said. “But I’m also thrilled that it represents a statement of continued commitment to supporting some of the neediest places.”

Nancy envisions benefactors to the fund drawing immense satisfaction from the success stories of individuals who benefit from these opportunities and who then apply their learning to strengthen their home institutions. For future beneficiaries of the fund – aspiring leaders in higher education – Nancy offers sage advice: “Whole-person development is essential for everyone, not just our students. It will remain crucial as you navigate challenges and stresses throughout your journey as a leader.”

 

A custodian of centennials

Nancy has twice served as a centennial president. She led the Yale-China Association during its centennial celebrations in 2001, authoring its centennial history. When the United Board celebrated its centennial in 2022, she again commemorated the milestone by penning its centennial publication.

In the prologue to this publication, Nancy reflects on the United Board’s modest beginnings in New York in 1922: “there was no mission statement, no charter, and neither trustees, nor officers, nor permanent staff” – in short, none of “the usual trappings of an organization intended to last.” Yet from these humble origins grew an enduring legacy: “The instruments of permanence would come in time, as would several name changes, a greatly expanded identity and geography, and a distinguished record of service to Christian higher education throughout Asia.”

As Nancy embarks on this new chapter of her life, her contributions to higher education continue through the Nancy E. Chapman Fund. This fund not only honors her remarkable legacy but also ensures that her vision will thrive – fostering a new generation of leaders equipped to address future challenges. Indeed, there may be no view longer than an instrument of philanthropy intended to last in perpetuity.

Dr. William K. Lee, former United Board trustee: 
“Nancy and I served as trustees together before she became president. It has been my privilege to know her as both a visionary leader and a dear friend over many years. Her dedication to nurturing leaders and strengthening institutions across Asia has left an indelible mark on countless lives. I trust that the Nancy E. Chapman Fund will continue Nancy’s legacy by opening doors for educators and communities in need, inspiring hope, and fostering collaboration for generations to come.”

Dr. Su Yon Pak, Chair, United Board:
“Nancy’s leadership was marked by vision, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to nurturing others. As a colleague and friend, she inspired us with her wisdom, warmth, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of education. With the Nancy E. Chapman Fund, I hope we will continue her legacy by empowering new generations of leaders – especially in places where hope and opportunity are needed most – so that her spirit of collaboration and service lives on in every life we touch.”

Dr. Joseph Zolner, Chair, Advancement Committee, United Board:
“Nancy Chapman’s impact on the United Board was profound and multi-faceted. Throughout her 20 years of leadership service, first as a trustee and then as a president, the United Board made countless contributions to the improvement of Asian higher education. It is entirely appropriate and wonderfully fitting that the United Board establish this endowed fund to recognize Nancy’s enduring legacy and to ensure that her powerful work continues in perpetuity.”