This volume presents a carefully selected collection of writings and speeches by Mei Yiqi (1889–1962), one of the most respected figures in the history of modern Chinese higher education and the long-serving president of Tsinghua University. Revered as the "eternal president" of Tsinghua, Mei guided the university through some of the most turbulent decades in modern Chinese history, including war, displacement, and national reconstruction, while remaining steadfast in his commitment to academic excellence and moral responsibility.

The texts gathered in this book reveal Mei's profound reflections on the nature and purpose of education, the mission of the university, the relationship between knowledge and character, and the responsibilities of intellectuals in times of social change. His famous conviction that "“What is called a great university is not one that possesses grand buildings, but one that possesses great teachers.”" continues to inspire educators and students around the world. Beyond educational philosophy, these writings offer valuable insights into leadership, public service, cultural continuity, and the cultivation of humane values in higher learning. Mei's prose is marked by clarity, restraint, and moral seriousness, reflecting both the intellectual traditions of China and the universal aspirations of modern education. More than a historical document, this collection speaks directly to contemporary debates about the role of universities in society and the meaning of education in an age of rapid transformation. It invites readers to reconsider enduring questions concerning scholarship, citizenship, and human development.

This English translation seeks to introduce Mei Yiqi's thought to an international readership and to foster dialogue across educational traditions, cultures, and generations.