The Bonderman Singapore Summer Program

David Bonderman (1942–2024), Co-Founder of TPG, was a pioneer in private equity, a legal scholar, a conservationist, and an advocate for cross-cultural understanding, whose contributions had a meaningful and far-reaching impact across industries and borders.

In honour of his legacy and impact, donors came together to establish The Bonderman Singapore Summer Program, bringing five undergraduates annually from the University of Washington, David's alma mater, to Asia for a six-week immersion through SMU’s Global Summer Programme. It was their way of keeping his spirit alive — not just through remembrance, but through meaningful action, championing the values he lived by: pushing boundaries, giving back to society, and preserving the natural environment for generations to come.

Where conservation meets cross-cultural discovery

Designed with conservation as a central theme, the programme is structured in two parts. Students spend four weeks in Singapore working on projects that tackle sustainability challenges alongside local partners like the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, before embarking on a two-week journey to another city in Southeast Asia, where these lessons are brought to life in a broader regional context.

Each cohort leaves with more than memories — their experiences create ripples of positive impact that extend far beyond Asia, fostering opportunity, growth, and global understanding.

Together, we build for better

If you are inspired by what donors made possible for David's legacy, we invite you to partner with SMU to build your own. Contact Henry Chua at henrychua@smu.edu.sg to explore how we can bring your vision to life.