HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, November 3, 2026 — Fulbright University Vietnam (Fulbright) has announced the appointment of Mr. Nguyen Bao Hoang as Chairman of its Board of Trustees, effective November 1, 2026. He succeeds Mr. Chris Helzer, who served as Chairman from 2025 to 2026, building on the foundations established under the leadership of Fulbright’s Founding Chairman emeritus, Mr. Thomas Vallely (2012–2025), and successive generations of University leaders.
The appointment comes as Fulbright enters a new phase of development, following more than a decade of building its institutional foundations. During the 2027 academic year, the University expects to open the first facilities at its new campus in Saigon Hi-Tech Park (SHTP), providing expanded spaces for learning, research, and student life.
A Foundation for Fulbright’s Next Phase of Development
Fulbright’s new campus will encompass academic and research facilities, student residences, sports facilities, green spaces, and supporting amenities. The project has been designed in accordance with the LEED Gold green building standards established by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), as well as the EDGE certification criteria developed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
The new campus is expected to support the gradual expansion of student enrollment while providing additional space for teaching, research, and student life. The first phase is scheduled for handover and opening in the third quarter of 2027.
Strengthening International Partnerships and Global Competitiveness
Alongside the development of its new campus, Fulbright is strengthening its engagement with international universities and research institutions to expand its academic offerings, promote academic exchange, and attract international experts to participate in teaching and research. Through these partnerships and joint research initiatives, the University aims to enhance the quality of specialized education and equip Vietnamese students with the knowledge, skills, and capabilities needed to succeed in an increasingly competitive global labor market.
Mr. Nguyen has long believed that investing in people and knowledge is among the most meaningful investments one can make, with the potential to create lasting value for society. Guided by this conviction, he has been closely involved with Fulbright since its founding, contributing to important milestones throughout the University’s development.
Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Nguyen said: “I am humbled by the confidence the Board has placed in me and excited by the opportunity to partner with President Dinh Vu Trang Ngan and the University’s leadership team as Fulbright enters its next phase of development. Fulbright aspires to combine the values and innovative approaches of American higher education with a deep commitment to Vietnam’s people, culture, and development needs. Our goal is to nurture generations of young people with the knowledge, confidence, and sense of responsibility to contribute meaningfully to the country’s future.”
Carrying Forward Fulbright’s Educational Mission for Vietnam’s Future
Dr. Dinh Vu Trang Ngan, President of Fulbright University Vietnam, said: “Mr. Nguyen’s personal story embodies the transformative power of a well-rounded education. After studying Classics at Harvard, earning a Doctor of Medicine degree from Northwestern University, and completing an MBA at the Kellogg School of Management, he returned to Vietnam to embark on a new chapter, eventually establishing himself as a successful entrepreneur across multiple industries. His journey demonstrates that education does more than impart knowledge; it opens doors to opportunities and career paths that students themselves may never have imagined. This is the very philosophy that guides Fulbright: empowering every student to discover their potential, develop independent thinking, and confidently shape a future of their own choosing. I am confident that, with Mr. Nguyen’s continued support, we can build on the foundations we have established, work alongside the Fulbright community to advance the University, and create even greater opportunities for our students.”
Under the governance model of international nonprofit universities, the Board of Trustees provides strategic direction, safeguards the University’s mission, and ensures its long-term sustainability. The leadership transition reflects Fulbright’s continued commitment to building a nonprofit university that connects international knowledge and expertise with Vietnam’s development needs. Upon assuming his new role, Mr. Nguyen expressed his sincere appreciation to Mr. Thomas Vallely, Fulbright’s Founding Chairman emeritus; his immediate predecessor, Mr. Chris Helzer; and the donors whose trust and steadfast support have contributed to the University’s development. He reaffirmed his commitment to carrying forward the dedication and vision of previous University leaders, working alongside the Fulbright community to advance the institution and create greater opportunities for students.
Mr. Chris Helzer, who will continue to serve on the Board of Trustees as Vice Chairman, said: “At this important juncture in Fulbright’s development, I believe Mr. Nguyen is well-positioned to work alongside the Board of Trustees and University leadership to guide Fulbright into its next phase, with a clear commitment to long-term, sustainable growth.”
With his academic background, leadership experience, and longstanding commitment to education, Mr. Nguyen is expected to strengthen Fulbright’s connections with international universities, educational institutions, and businesses. These partnerships will contribute to enhancing academic quality and advancing Fulbright’s ambition to become one of the leading choices for students pursuing higher education in Vietnam.
About Fulbright University Vietnam
Established in 2016 with the support of the Vietnamese and US governments, Fulbright University Vietnam is a nonprofit university dedicated to educating capable, responsible individuals who contribute to the sustainable development of society.
Guided by an interdisciplinary approach to education, Fulbright draws on innovative educational practices from around the world while remaining responsive to Vietnam’s unique context and evolving development needs. The University provides students with a strong foundation of knowledge, fosters critical thinking, and develops their ability to address complex challenges.
Through rigorous undergraduate and graduate programs of international quality, Fulbright develops highly skilled talent for Vietnam and nurtures globally minded individuals who think independently and possess the adaptability to navigate an ever-changing world.
About Mr. Nguyen Bao Hoang
Mr. Nguyen Bao Hoang currently serves as Chairman of Phoenix Holdings, an investment company with interests spanning technology, consumer goods and retail, financial technology, education, sports, media, and entertainment. Previously, he served as Chief Executive Officer of IDG Ventures Vietnam, the country’s first venture capital fund, and Executive Chairman of Timo Digital Bank.
Mr. Nguyen is also the Developmental Licensee (Master Franchisee) for McDonald’s in Vietnam, President of the Vietnam Basketball Federation, President of the Southeast Asian Basketball Federation, and a founding co-owner and Vice Chairman of Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC).
Beyond his professional endeavors, Mr. Nguyen has maintained a longstanding commitment to philanthropy and community development. He serves as Chairman of the Board of Advisors for Operation Smile Vietnam, an organization that supports surgical care for children with cleft lips, cleft palates, and other craniofacial conditions. He is also a co-founder of the Phoenix Foundation, which supports community development initiatives, including the construction of bridges, homes, and schools to improve living conditions in Vietnam’s island, border, and mountainous regions.
Mr. Nguyen holds a bachelor’s degree in Classics from Harvard University, a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from Northwestern University Medical School, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.
