Dr. Shao You-Bao Biography

Dr. Shao You-Bao was a visionary leader in banking, international trade, public service, and philanthropy. His successful business career coupled with civic contributions in Hong Kong, China, and the world exemplifies how Overseas Chinese have contributed to the well-being of the region and to international understanding.

Born in Shangdong, China, Dr. Shao studied in Japan on a government scholarship and graduated from Kobe University. His career in banking began a half-century ago in 1943. Since 1953, he served as the Deputy General Manager for the Hong Kong Branch of the Bank of Tokyo. He was chairman of the board of the Van Yu Trading Company, Ltd., and of numerous other companies and joint ventures in Hong Kong and China. Through his work and advice, he made major contributions to the economic development of China and the continued prosperity of Hong Kong.

Long a leader in international cooperation, Dr. Shao was awarded the prestigious Order of the Sacred Treasure by the Emperor of Japan (1987) and the International Year of Family Award by the United Nations (1991).

As a member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Dr. Shao helped draft the Basic Law of Hong Kong that provides the legal basis for Hong Kong’s transition from British colonial rule to unification with China in 1997. He was also appointed as a member of the Consultative Committee on the New Airport and Related Projects to the Hong Kong Government, serving as deputy chair of its Finance Committee

In recognition of his accomplishments and far-reaching contributions, Ohio University conferred an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree on June 11, 1993.   Ohio Governor George Voinovich also proclaimed Dr. Shao an Honorary Citizen of the State of Ohio in appreciation for his work to promote trade relations and a better understanding between Ohio and Asia.

In 1993, Dr. Shao You-Bao donated $500,000 towards the establishment of the Center for Overseas Chinese Documentation and Research, which was subsequently named after him. This initial endowment was augmented by another donation by his son, Dr. Daniel Shao. Between 1993 and his passing in 2006, Dr. Shao You-Bao had been an ardent supporter of the Shao Overseas Chinese Center and its activities. Both Dr. Shao You-Bao and Dr. Daniel Shao contributed very generously towards the funding of the three conferences held by the Shao Overseas Chinese Center in 2001, 2003 and 2005 respectively, and have graced these occasions with their presence.

Dr. Shao You-Bao passed away in March 2006, at the age of eighty-five.