USPAACC CEO Susan Au Allen (front row, third from right) is pictured above with Tina Lee, Managing Director of the World Journal (front row, center) winning students, alumni, and trustees of the Greater New York Chinese Education Foundation at the 18th Greater New York Chinese Education Foundation Scholarship Award Ceremony held at the Sheraton Grand Flushing Hotel, Queens the evening of July 7. Photo credit: Reporter Gao Yuner.
Susan Au Allen, CEO of the US Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation (USPAACC), was honored with the “Beacon of Inspiration Award” by the World Journal and Scholarship America at the 18th Greater New York Chinese Education Foundation Scholarship Award Ceremony on July 7. The prestigious award is given once every five years to a leader who exemplifies hope, resiliency, and inspiration to the Pan Asian American/AANHPI community.
Mrs. Allen, who also served as the Keynote Speaker for the event, was recognized for her incredible work in advancing the interests and opportunities of Pan Asian Americans in business, education, and civic engagement. During her remarks, Mrs. Allen shared her journey as an immigrant who came to the United States on an invitation from the White House for her volunteer work for people with disabilities in Hong Kong.
“To have my life, work, and story characterized as a beacon of inspiration is truly an honor. I came to this country with a dream and a determination to make a difference. I never forgot the valuable life lessons those experiences taught me: volunteer and do good,” Mrs. Allen said.
The event at the Sheraton Grand Flushing Hotel in Queens, also awarded scholarships to 18 outstanding Chinese students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
The scholarship fund is part of Scholarship America, the largest scholarship organization in the country, and has given $5.1 billion to over three million students since its founding in 1958.
Tina Lee, Managing Director of the World Journal, warmly welcomed guests, scholars, and recipients, as well as the Board of Directors.
Li Deyi, President of the Greater New York Chinese Education Foundation, thanked all the sponsors for their generosity and commitment to investing in the education of Chinese children. Deyi also thanked the World Journal for connecting the foundation with students and sponsors and raising awareness about this scholarship.
Many of the scholarship winners are second-generation immigrants or first-generation college students in their families. Zhang Zongzhi, director of World Daily New York, congratulated them and noted that the scholarship was established in 2005, the same age as this year’s recipients encouraging them to pursue their dreams and contribute to society.
