Warden’s Message

As a Hornellian for over 40 years, it is an honor and a great challenge for me to come back to Hornell Hall as a Warden, although I have been around for many years. I must thank all of the past Wardens for their hard work and commitment.

Hornell Hall (Chinese name: 康寧堂) is the first and only male undergraduate and graduate non-residential hall at the University of Hong Kong (HKU). It was founded on the 24th of September in 1953 and was named after Sir William Hornell, former Vice-Chancellor of HKU. In an open naming competition held in 1958, the Chinese name (康寧堂) was chosen by then-Professor Jao Tsung-I, a world-renowned Chinese sinologist who has dedicated nearly eight decades of his life to scholarly research, art, and education.

Hornell Hall is characterized by its long history, unique culture, and strong brotherhood among past and current members, who have led the way in many sporting and socially-conscious activities at HKU. Over the past 68 years, Hornell has nurtured numerous leaders with a never-give-up attitude, in many sectors of the community and walks of life. The liberty, diversity, and inclusiveness of Hornell Hall culture brings us together as we strive to achieve our brotherhood.  This spirit is best expressed by the Hornell Hall motto: “It’s not with stone we build our hall, but with united strength of all.”

Join us and become a Hornellian!