The Yidan Prize Foundation today announced the appointments of Dame Louise Richardson, President of the Andrew Carnegie Foundation and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford, and Professor Peter Salovey, President Emeritus and Sterling Professor of Psychology at Yale University, to its Board of Directors. Their extensive experience leading some of the world’s most influential institutions will strengthen the foundation’s governance and long-term strategy as it continues to spotlight changemakers and illuminate pathways forward in global education.

Dame Louise Richardson joins the Board while serving as President of the Andrew Carnegie Foundation. She previously served as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford and Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of St Andrews.

An internationally respected leader in higher education and philanthropy, Dame Louise has dedicated her career to advancing education as a public good. She has served on numerous boards and advisory councils spanning education, culture, and public policy. Her experience leading world-renowned universities and philanthropic institutions brings deep expertise in institutional stewardship, governance, and mission-driven leadership to support the foundation’s long-term development.

“Throughout my career in universities and philanthropy, I have seen how lasting progress depends on institutions that combine a clear sense of purpose with the capacity to evolve,” said Dame Louise Richardson. “The Yidan Prize Foundation has established itself as a powerful champion for changemakers in education, and I look forward to supporting its continued development and global impact.”

Professor Peter Salovey is President Emeritus and Sterling Professor of Psychology at Yale University. A distinguished scholar of psychology and health, he is widely known for his foundational work on emotional intelligence, conducted in collaboration with Professor John D. Mayer.

During his decade-long tenure as President of Yale University, he expanded access to education, strengthened global partnerships, advanced interdisciplinary research, and fostered innovation and entrepreneurship. His leadership has been marked by a commitment to inclusion, academic excellence, and institutional resilience.

“Throughout my career, I have been guided by the belief that access and excellence in education must advance together,” said Professor Peter Salovey. “The Yidan Prize Foundation’s commitment to supporting innovative solutions and expanding opportunity for learners worldwide resonates deeply with me. I am pleased to join the Board and contribute to its mission.”

Sustainability, continuity, and stewardship

These appointments reflect the foundation’s conviction: meaningful and lasting transformation in education requires strong institutions underpinned by sound governance and long-term stewardship. As the Yidan Prize enters its tenth year, the addition of Dame Louise Richardson and Professor Peter Salovey reinforces the foundation’s commitment to sustainability, continuity, and responsible leadership in support of its mission to create a better world through education.

The foundation also expressed its gratitude to Sir Leszek Borysiewicz, who stepped down from the Board following his appointment as Chair of UK Research and Innovation. Over the past nine years, Sir Leszek provided counsel and steadfast support, helping shape a stable and forward-looking institution grounded in strong governance.

Dame Louise Richardson succeeds Sir Leszek Borysiewicz on the Board. Professor Peter Salovey joins as successor to Professor Richard Levin, who will continue serving for an additional year to ensure a smooth transition. This planned succession reflects the foundation’s emphasis on mission-driven continuity and institutional strength.

Chaired by the Yidan Prize’s Founder, Dr Charles CHEN Yidan, the independent Board of Directors comprises former presidents and senior leaders of leading universities. The Board oversees the foundation’s governance and strategic direction, upholding the rigor of its operations and the integrity of the Yidan Prize’s independent judging process.

The Yidan Prize is funded by an endowed charitable trust overseen by UBS Trustees Limited. Established in 2016 through a one-time donation by Dr Charles CHEN Yidan, the trust safeguards the Yidan Prize’s financial sustainability and ensures responsible, long-term stewardship.