Amidst the social changes in China in the past century renowned university presidents were inextricably tied to their era. During the transition “from a despotic regime to a republic government,” they aimed to cultivate people with healthy personalities, republican ideals, and comprehensive knowledge. The democratic universities under their guidance prioritized learning and academic work, practicing professorial governance and students’ autonomy. They develop education that respects individuals, reforms society, and saves the country. During the transition “from the Republic of China to the People’s Republic of China,” they aimed to cultivate staunch and competent socialist constructors. Under their leadership were socialist people’s universities with well-organized and well-targeted systems. They develop new socialist education under the leadership of the Communist Party of China. During the transition “from chaos to governance,” they aimed to cultivate top-level, well-rounded talents for China’s modernization drive in open, comprehensive, and research-based universities. They develop modern first-class education with Chinese characteristics. These presidents are distinguished for their pioneering ethos and educational philosophy ahead of their time. With their strategic insight, they respect rules and make resolute judgments. They are professionally competent with broad knowledge and an unyielding commitment to being the best. They are rigorous and compassionate in their management, with common sense and insight. They are examples of educators with a deep understanding of the existing conditions.