The JT Shen Science Wing
Honoring a legacy of faith, perseverance, and generosity.
With heartfelt gratitude, The King’s Academy dedicates the JT Shen Science Wing in recognition of the generosity of alumnus Tom Shen and in honor of his late father, Jin Tai Shen. This space reflects their shared legacy of perseverance, faith, and commitment to education.
About Tom Shen
Born in Taiwan to a British-educated petrochemical engineer father and a devout Methodist mother
Introduced to Christianity through a Chinese school in Thailand supported by a Southern Baptist church
Accepted Christ as the result of a Christian summer camp in Thailand hosted and directed by Missionary
Benton Williams (Academy Alumnus, Class of 1947)Came to Harrison-Chilhowee Academy (now TKA) at the recommendation of missionary alumnus Benton Williams
- Built a successful career in technology, including founding Software Dynamics (sold in 2001) and Malauzai Software (sold in 2018)
Studied Christian Ministries at The Master’s College, graduating Summa Cum Laude
Endowed a scholarship at TKA to support Asian students, honoring the kindness of Food Services Worker “Mama” Cates
“It’s God’s company.”
The Life of Jin tai Shen (1911–1985)
Education:
- Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Xiamen University
- Master of Science Petroleum Engineering, University of Birmingham, England
- Doctoral work disrupted due to war; returned home to serve China
War Efforts in China:
- Developed and directed chemical factories primarily in remote areas of western and central China
- Developed alternative fuels from plants to keep military vehicles moving in support of China’s War of Resistance.
Industrial Leadership in Taiwan:
- First Director of the Kaohsiung Refinery
- Chairman of China Petrochemical Industry Development Corporation
- Played a pivotal role in Taiwan’s modern oil and chemical industries
Academic & Professional Influence:
- Encouraged young chemists
- Modeled hard work and commitment to excellence
- Wrote widely on petroleum chemistry and new energy sources
Character & Legacy:
Remembered by colleagues and family as principled, humble, and deeply committed to his nation and community.
Family
- Married Jenny Yu-Fen Chen, ShaoXing
- Daughter Kathy
- Son Tom, TKA Class of 1973
Faith
- Founding Member, Mandarin Baptist Church, San Fernando Valley, Northridge, CA
A Legacy Across Generations
The story of the Shen family is one of courage, perseverance, and devotion to God and community. From public service in the Qing Dynasty to wartime sacrifice in China, to industrial leadership in Taiwan, and now to Christian education in Tennessee, each generation has left a mark that continues to shape lives around the world.
Shen Baozhen
(1820–1879)
A Qing Dynasty official who modernized Taiwan’s defenses and infrastructure.
Oversaw coastal fortifications, roads, and reforms that strengthened Taiwan during turbulent times.
Jin Tai Shen
(1911–1985)
A chemist and industrial leader, remembered as the “Father of Taiwan’s Petroleum Industry.”
Sacrificed his doctoral studies in England to return to China during WWII.
Directed chemical and fuel plants that supported China’s war effort and Taiwan’s post-war industrial growth.
Tom Shen
(1957–present)
Alumnus of The King’s Academy (Class of 1973).
Entrepreneur and founder of Software Dynamics and Malauzai Software.
Dedicated his businesses and career to God, declaring: “It’s God’s company.”
Generously gave back to TKA, establishing scholarships and funding the JT Shen Science Wing.
The King’s Academy
Today
Students benefit daily from updated science labs that encourage innovation and discovery.
The wing stands as a living tribute to perseverance, faith, and excellence, shaping the next generation of leaders.
Further Reading & Historical Archives
Explore published works that provide additional insight into the life and legacy of Jintai Shen.
Xiamen University Alumni Association
Written by Wenqiang Xiao (Editorial staff, U.S. Chapter)
Posted online: March 22, 2021
Includes excerpts from “Remembering My Late Husband Shen Jin-Tai” by Jenny Yu-Fen Chen Shen, originally published in the World Journal on February 15, 1987.
The World Journal is a widely read Chinese daily available in Taiwan and overseas Chinese communities.
China Petroleum Corporation
Written by Lu-Bao Yuan (Refining Division, CPC)
Published as part of a 2-part Feature Report on the history of the Kaohsiung Refinery
Appeared in the CPC Journal, July 2019 edition