Mrs Tan-Soh Wai Lan was appointed President of Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) in January 2021 and played a critical role in establishing the academy as a founding member of the University of the Arts Singapore in 2022.

Since her appointment, she has led the development of the NAFA100 Strategic Vision Masterplan, positioning the Academy for distinction at its centennial. During this period, NAFA expanded its research focus across key areas including Practice Research, Creative Health, ArtScience, and Regenerative Design. In 2022, the Academy undertook a major brand refresh anchored by the vision of “Courage to Create”, marking a new phase of growth and ambition.

Under Wai Lan’s leadership, NAFA has been recognised in The Straits Times’ Singapore Best Employers rankings for five consecutive years, ranking #63 overall and #4 in the education sector in 2024. Its international and community engagement has also deepened through initiatives such as the NAFA Paris Studios, alongside strengthened alumni leadership through the Young Alumni Medal recognising emerging creative talents.

Prior to NAFA, Wai Lan held various senior positions in the Ministry of Education, and was Principal of CHIJ St Nicholas Girls’ School and Anderson Secondary School. For her dedication and contribution to the education service, she received the Public Administration Medal (Silver) in 2015. Her memoir, An Attitude of Gratitude, published in 2023 is a clarion call on the importance of authenticity, integrity and gratitude.