The Chao Center for Asian Studies at Rice University was honored with the Community Partner Game Changer Award at the prestigious 2024 Roy M. Huffington Award Dinner, hosted by Asia Society Texas Center.
The dinner celebrated the achievements of Donna Fujimoto Cole, who received the Roy M. Huffington Award for her longstanding commitment to advocating for civil rights, empowering women, promoting environmental awareness, and uplifting the Asian American community.
The Game Changer Awards recognize trailblazing individuals, institutions, and corporations for their exceptional impact on the Houston community. In addition to the Chao Center, H-E-B received the Corporate Citizenship Award, and Dr. Khurram Nasir from Houston Methodist was honored with the Innovator Award.
The event was chaired by Anne-Laure and Steve Stephens and Nancy J. Li and Dr. Soner Tarim, with a distinguished list of honorary chairs and supporters. The evening’s conversation was moderated by ABC’s Melanie Lawson and emceed by Emmy Award-winning storyteller Rose-Ann Aragon.