IHB leaders and retiree representatives cut the birthday cake together. (Credit: IHB)

On December 2, 2024， the Institute of Hydrobiology (IHB) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences hosted a special celebration to honor retirees reaching milestone birthdays in 2024. The event recognized seven individuals turning 90, three turning 80, five turning 70, and eight turning 60.

The Retiree Activity Center was festively decorated, with colorful ribbons and red lanterns setting a warm and cheerful tone. A centerpiece birthday cake, adorned with a red longevity symbol and decorative peaches, represented wishes for health and long life.

During the event, IHB leaders presented each retiree with a longevity scarf and a birthday gift while expressing their heartfelt gratitude and best wishes. A presentation featuring photographs of the retirees’ careers highlighted their contributions to IHB's research and scientific endeavors over the years. The 90-year-old honorees, including QIU Changqiang, LU Heming, WANG Jingbao, and SHEN Genquan, shared their reflections and thanks, recalling fond memories of their work at the institute.

Director MIAO Wei took the opportunity to share updates on IHB's progress in institutional reforms and advancements in scientific innovation. He expressed deep appreciation for the retirees' years of dedication and wished them continued health and happiness.

The celebration culminated in a group cake-cutting ceremony, with leaders and retirees sharing a joyful moment together.

Following the event, deputy director XIE Shouqi visited 80-year-old retiree HAN Wenzhi, who was unable to attend due to health limitations. Xie and his team delivered a birthday cake and a gift, bringing warm wishes and a personal touch of care from the IHB community. The thoughtful gesture moved Han to tears, highlighting the strong bonds between IHB and its retirees.

Birthday Honorees Pose for a Group Photo with IHB Leaders and Guests (Credit: IHB)