Reconnecting through Reunion and leading the way with Peter Chen Huan Koo ’90

Meet Philadelphia Network Leadership Council Member

What Peter is up to now and reflecting on his time at the University

Tell us a bit about yourself and your journey since graduating from the University of Rochester. What are you currently working on or passionate about?

Since graduating from the University of Rochester with a degree in computer science and mathematics, my career has spanned various industries and leadership roles, focusing on strategy, organizational development, and leadership consulting. This journey has taken me to cities all around the world.

I began at Andersen Consulting (now Accenture) and have since held various positions at Capgemini, Strategy&, IBM, and Kearney, specializing in strategy and business transformation. I then transitioned to Egon Zehnder where I spent 19 years serving financial services clients focused on board review, CEO succession, and leadership development initiatives.

Currently, as Chief Leadership Officer at Quest Global, I am focused on its leadership agenda. In addition to my professional work, I am pursuing a doctorate in organization management at Rutgers Business School, driven by my passion for leadership, coaching, and mentoring.

On a personal level, I am preparing for my fifth ultra-marathon, this time in South Africa, embracing the challenge of endurance sports.

What are some of your most cherished memories from your time at the University? Are there any stories that still stand out 35 years later?

My time at the University of Rochester was a defining chapter filled with intellectual curiosity, camaraderie, and adventure. I valued the faculty’s support, my peers’ aspirations, and the strong sense of community on campus and beyond. The computer science program at the time was still emerging, and I’m grateful for the faculty and administration’s guidance that helped me land my first job. Some of my best memories include volunteering in the community, late-night study sessions, and surviving Rochester’s legendary winters—like when we jumped from a second-floor window into snowbanks after six feet of snow! The campus tunnel system was a lifesaver during those brutal winters.

How did your time at the University, both academically and socially, shape your personal and professional life?

The University of Rochester was pivotal in building my confidence, broadening my career outlook, and enhancing my cultural awareness. It taught me critical thinking, problem-solving, resilience, and humility, while its diverse environment inspired me to pursue international opportunities, leading to a global career. The friendships and experiences I gained reinforced the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and lifelong learning—values that continue to guide me. I’m deeply grateful for the University’s impact on my journey, providing the foundation and inspiration for my career, mentorship, and ongoing learning.

Volunteerism and making an impact

What inspired you to join the 35th Reunion Committee, and what excites you most about reconnecting with your classmates?

My primary goal in helping plan our 35th Reunion is to reconnect with classmates, encourage them to revisit the University and foster an environment where everyone feels welcomed and inspired to re-engage with the Rochester community. Giving back to the University is important to me, as I wouldn’t be where I am today without the education and experiences I received. Having seen how much the University has evolved, I want my classmates to experience that too. I’m excited to bring my family and share this pivotal place in my journey, hoping many of my classmates will join to reminisce, network, or appreciate how far we’ve come.

This will be my first in-person Reunion, as I missed our 30th due to COVID and spent much of my career abroad. I’m especially excited to reconnect with my computer science classmates, as only 18 of us graduated with this degree in 1990, making us a close-knit group. I look forward to seeing how everyone’s journey has evolved.

How do you think alumni events like Reunions help strengthen the bonds between classmates and the University community?

Alumni events like Reunions offer more than just social gatherings. They provide valuable opportunities to:

• Reconnect with classmates: Rekindle friendships, share life updates, and reminisce about shared experiences.
• Reflect on our Rochester journey: Consider how our education and experiences at Rochester have shaped our personal and professional lives.
• Engage with the evolving University: Witness the University’s growth and explore ways to contribute to its continued success, whether through mentorship, volunteer work, or sharing your expertise with current students.
• Connect with the next generation: Interact with faculty and current students, offering guidance and sharing our insights to support their academic and personal growth.

As a Real Reader, how has your involvement in this program allowed you to give back to the University and connect with current students?

Beyond reconnecting with classmates, I have also found fulfillment in supporting current students through the Real Reader program, one of the Greene Center for Career Education and Connections’ many volunteer programs. While this initiative did not exist when I was a student, it is an incredible way to help guide the next generation by offering career advice, resume and cover letter feedback, and insights into professional growth. Having navigated a global career, I enjoy helping students think through career possibilities with a broader perspective. The level of ambition and thoughtfulness among today’s students is truly impressive, and while the program requires time commitment, the chance to mentor, guide, and offer perspective makes it an enriching experience.

What have been some of the most rewarding moments in your volunteer work with the University so far?

What I find most meaningful about volunteering with the University is the sense of connection to fellow alumni, students, and the broader Rochester community. The collective experience of being involved, helpful, and engaged through Reunion planning, mentorship, and sharing insights is truly rewarding. I value being part of this network and look forward to continuing to support Rochester’s community in any way I can.

How you can get involved like Peter

What advice would you give to fellow alumni who are considering volunteering for reunions or other University initiatives?

My advice for those considering volunteering for reunions or other University initiatives is simple: do it. There’s no need to hesitate or overthink it—the experience of giving back, reconnecting, and contributing to the University community is rewarding in ways beyond the event itself.

Even for those who may not have the time to volunteer, I would encourage them to actively participate in the Reunion and truly take it all in. Whether through catching up with old friends, making new connections, engaging with faculty and students, or simply walking through campus and seeing how it has evolved, being part of the Reunion experience should not be missed.

Check out volunteer opportunities with the University today!