Born in Hong Kong, Fong Chan moved to the United States to pursue his education, beginning a journey that would lead him to the pinnacle of academic excellence. He joined the faculty at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1992 and served with distinction as the Norman L. and Barbara M. Berven Professor of Rehabilitation Psychology and as the Chair of the Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Special Education. As Director of the Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on evidence-based practices in vocational rehabilitation, his work became a cornerstone for contemporary service provision.

A licensed psychologist and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, Dr. Chan was a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and a National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research Distinguished Research Fellow. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he authored over 500 journal articles and edited four foundational textbooks that continue to guide rehabilitation professionals today.

His accolades were numerous, including the George Wright Varsity award and the James R. Garrett Award for distinguished career achievement. Yet, his true impact is found in the "academic family" he built — the generations of students and researchers who carry forward his dedication to social justice and evidence-based care.

Beyond the lecture halls and research labs, Dr. Chan was known for his quiet humility and compassionate spirit. He was a lifelong animal lover who found great joy and peace in the company of animals, a reflection of the gentle kindness he extended to everyone he met.