The Successful Conclusion of the 2024-2025 CAAM Stanley & Marvel Chong Scholarship Award Ceremony
By CAAM Communication Team; Photography by Simon Li
On the evening of April 20, 2025, the Kangle Adults Activity Center in Minnesota was brightly lit and filled with distinguished guests. The Chinese American Association of Minnesota (CAAM) held the 2024-2025 CAAM – Stanley & Marvel Chong Scholarship Award Ceremony, honoring 13 outstanding Chinese high school graduates for their achievements in academics, community service, and cultural promotion.
Grand Opening, Passing on the Spirit
Starting at 5:00 PM, guests arrived and enjoyed a sumptuous dinner. The award ceremony officially began at 6:30 PM. Dr. Ping Wang, the current President of CAAM, delivered an opening speech, briefly reviewing CAAM’s development and organizational structure, including CAAM, CAAM TWCLS (Twin Cities Chinese Language School), and CAAM CDT (Chinese Dance Theater). He warmly welcomed all the guests and expressed his sincere gratitude to the Stanley & Marvel Chong Foundation for their many years of generous support. He then invited the CAAM board members present to introduce themselves. It is worth noting that Director Li Shu left early due to unforeseen circumstances and was unable to participate in the introductions; Director Di Tang was unable to attend due to urgent company affairs and entrusted her husband to attend in her place. In addition, Directors Gang Ji and Yufeng Berry had previously requested leave due to a conflict with their family’s Easter arrangements. Former CAAM presidents Mr. Kennth Lau (1975), Ms. KaiMay Yuan Terry (1999-2000), and Stanley & Marvel Chong Foundation Director Thomas Ratelle were also unable to attend due to Easter family activities, but all expressed their heartfelt congratulations to the award winners through President Wang.
Distinguished Speech, Historical Review and Future Expectations
Dr. Charles Lee, former CAAM President (1982-1983), renowned community leader, and popular science writer, delivered the keynote speech. Dr. Lee graduated from the Semiconductor Physics Department of Peking University and came to the United States in 1965, earning a Master’s and Doctorate degree from Purdue University. He worked at 3M Company for 27 years, retiring as Chief Scientist of the Commercial Imaging Department, and made outstanding contributions in the fields of electronic digital printing, optical products, electro-optical copying, inkjet printing, and 3D stereoscopic imaging technology. Dr. Li served as the President of the Minnesota Chinese American Chamber of Commerce and the Vice President of the Friends of the University of Minnesota China Center. He founded Image Ensemble, Inc. and co-founded Vista 3D, Inc., dedicated to the development of 3D stereoscopic home theater technology.
In his speech, Dr. Lee reviewed the history and impact of the CAAM scholarship program, mentioning the initial donation from Foxconn Chairman Terry Guo during his visit to Minnesota in 1985, and the continuous support of many Chinese community leaders. Since 2018, the program has funded more than 110 outstanding Minnesota Chinese students, with a total scholarship amount of $360,000. He also shared interesting anecdotes about fishing with Mr. Stanley Chong, praising Stanley as a role model for the community and his philosophy of life. Finally, Dr. Lee encouraged the students to maintain their curiosity, embrace multiculturalism, and mentioned the achievements of outstanding scholarship recipients such as former Reddit CEO Huang Yishan. (For the full Chinese version of Dr. Leei’s speech, see Appendix)
Youthful Demeanor, Possessing Both Talent and Virtue
The award ceremony officially began at 7:00 PM. CAAM directors Guoqing Li , Shi Peng , and Ping Wang presented certificates to each scholarship recipient, followed by a group phot
The 13 scholarship recipients come from eight well-known high schools in Minnesota and will attend universities such as Stanford University, University of Chicago, Cornell University, Northwestern University, University of California–Los Angeles, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, and University of St. Thomas. The scholarship amounts range from $2,000 to $5,000, which is an affirmation of their many years of academic efforts, cultural inheritance, and community contributions.
The scholarship recipients took turns to express their heartfelt gratitude:
Emily Luo, a senior year student of Mounds View High School, expressed her gratitude for receiving the CAAM – Stanley & Marvel Chong Scholarship and reviewed her 13-year dance journey at the CAAM Chinese Dance Theater (CDT), through which she inherited and promoted Chinese cultural heritage. She mentioned her experience of finding a sense of belonging in both Chinese and American cultures, and the joy she gained through performances and volunteer service. She thanked her parents for their support and dedication, and looked forward to the future, hoping to make full use of this scholarship to study neuro-brain science.
Richard Lin, a 12th-grade student from Wayzata High School, expressed his gratitude for receiving the CAAM – Stanley & Marvel Chong Scholarship and paid tribute to the Chinese cultural values passed down by his parents, such as diligence, perseverance, and serving the community. He deepened his identification with his Chinese identity through visiting China and receiving Chinese education, and volunteered in the community to help the younger generation understand Chinese traditions. He promised to continue to contribute to the Chinese community in the future.
May Tang, a student from Eastview High School, expressed her deep gratitude for CAAM’s scholarship and its work in preserving Chinese cultural heritage. She shared her growing appreciation for the Chinese community in Minnesota, which provided invaluable assistance and a sense of belonging to her family during difficult times. In addition to her personal experiences, she emphasized the importance of spreading Chinese culture to the broader Minnesota community through activities such as New Year celebrations, parades, and artistic performances, which are especially important for young people like her who want to connect with their culture.
Andy T. Luo, a 12th-grade student from Wayzata High School, felt honored to receive the CAAM scholarship. He recalled his experience participating in CAAM activities since junior high school, including dragon dance performances at the Mall of America, the Minnesota Orchestra, and the Target Center, as well as hosting events at the Mall of America. He thanked CAAM for not only establishing scholarships but also providing a wealth of opportunities, especially mentioning the unforgettable experience of the dragon dance performance during an NBA halftime show. He congratulated the award winners and volunteers, thanked his parents for their support, and expressed his pride in everyone’s shared achievements
Artistic Performances, Cultural Inheritance
The ceremony was interspersed with several精彩 performances, showcasing the artistic talents and cultural heritage of Chinese youth:
The elegant dance moves and melodious melody presented the beauty of Chinese art to all the guests.
Sharing Experiences and Growth from Alumni
The award ceremony specially invited previous scholarship recipients to come back and share their college experiences and life insights:
William Zhong, a statistics student at Carleton College, reviewed his college journey. He mentioned the expected things like late-night ramen and bad cafeteria food, as well as unexpected experiences like eating at a professor’s house. Through comparing his college life with his high school life, he emphasized the importance of meeting new friends and bravely stepping out of one’s comfort zone. He also pointed out that his Chinese cultural background brought him unique opportunities and connections, encouraging everyone to cherish and embrace their cultural roots. Wenze concluded his speech with inspiring words, affirming that everyone present has the potential to achieve great things.
Sydney Peng, a fourth-year neuroscience student in the College of Biological Sciences at the University of Minnesota, who has been admitted to the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine with a full scholarship, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the CAAM – Stanley and Marvel Chong Scholarship Foundation. Her love of biology and her own injury experience sparked her interest in neuroscience, and she focused her research on the mechanisms of pain. She emphasized the importance of working with different age groups, adapting to adult life, and building a supportive community in college. Yuqiao encouraged the younger students to embrace new things with an open mind, discover the joy of learning, and be flexible in dealing with ever-changing interests. Finally, she congratulated the younger students on their achievements and wished them all the best in the future.
Successful Conclusion, Gratitude in Our Hearts
At the conclusion of the 2023–2024 CAAM–Stanley & Marvel Chong Scholarship Awards Ceremony, Mr. Shi Peng, Director of the Chinese American Association of Minnesota (CAAM) and Chair of the Scholarship Review Committee, delivered heartfelt closing remarks at the invitation of Master of Ceremonies, President Ping Wang. He expressed profound gratitude to the Stanley & Marvel Chong Foundation for its enduring support, as well as to the dedicated volunteers, parents, sponsors, the Kangle Senior Activity Center, and CAAM’s board of directors for their invaluable contributions.
Mr. Shi emphasized the significance of gratitude in Chinese culture, stating, “Gratitude is the most precious essence of Chinese culture. Please give the warmest applause, hugs, and kisses to the parents of the award winners!” He earnestly encouraged the scholarship recipients to carry forward their cultural heritage and self-identity as they embark on their collegiate journeys. This aspiration aligns with the shared vision of the Stanley & Marvel Chong Foundation and CAAM, both committed to nurturing future leaders who honor and promote Chinese culture. Mr. Shi concluded with a hopeful message: “I firmly believe that today’s award winners will carry the mark of culture and go higher and farther in the future!”
Scholarship Background Introduction
The Stanley & Marvel Chong Scholarship was established by CAAM founding President Stanley Chong and his family to fund outstanding Chinese youth who excel in academics, strive to inherit Chinese culture, and actively participate in community volunteer services.
Learn more: https://caam.org/scholarships
Appendix 1:
| Name | High School |
| Jaden Cai | Minnetonka |
| Youi Chen | Mounds View |
| Macy Noble | Maple Grove |
| Richard Lin | Wayzata |
| Justin Liu | North St. Paul |
| Andy T Luo | Wayzata |
| Emily Luo | Mounds View |
| Lisa Nong | Minnetonka |
| May Tang | Eastview |
| Amaris Tu | Mounds View |
| Jason Long Xiao | East Ridge |
| Sarah Yu | East Ridge |
| Maggie Yuan | Edina |
Appendix 2:
2025 CAAM Scholarship Award Ceremony Speech by Charles Lee
4/20/2025
CAAM president Ping Wang, Distinguished guests, esteemed teachers, proud parents, and most importantly, our outstanding students:
Good evening!
Today, we gather to celebrate a moment of hope and pride—the presentation of the CAAM Scholarship. On behalf of the Association, let me first extend our warmest congratulations to all the award recipients. Your diligence, intellect, and character have made you truly deserving of this honor.
Students, this “scholarship” is more than just financial support. It is recognition and expectation—recognition of how you’ve illuminated classrooms with discipline, pursued knowledge with passion, and served your communities with kindness. It is also an expectation for you to become future bridge-builders across cultures, fearless seekers of truth, and compassionate leaders.
Many of you here today excel not only academically but also through volunteer work, cultural exchange, or innovation. This scholarship celebrates your growth. Your presence here proves the power of perseverance; tomorrow, I hope, you will use this foundation to inspire others—whether through scientific discovery, artistic expression, or fostering mutual understanding between China and the United States.
Let me tell you some background of the “CAAM Stanley and Marvel Chong Scholarship” 。
In 1985 Mr. Terry Guo (郭台铭) the CEO of Taiwan Foxconn donated $5,000 to CAAM Chinese Language School.
The scholarship program for merit and need students is a huge success story. Fred & Jennie Hsiao, Sping Ling, and Steve & Bess Chen donated more than $1,000 per year for more than 10 years.
CAAM’s founding president Stanley Chong in 2006 donated more than $30,000 through Stanley & Marvel Chong Foundation. A 20th century pioneer of the Chinese community in Minnesota, Stanley’s vision, compassion and civic-mindedness is a role model for future generations to come. CAAM and all Chinese in Minnesota will forever be indebted to you. Our good friend Kaimay Terry helped to establish this scholarship.
These are words from CAAM:
A 20th century pioneer of the Chinese community in Minnesota, Stanley’s vision, compassion and civic-mindedness is a role model for future generations to come. CAAM and all Chinese in Minnesota will forever be indebted to you.
Their life long philosophy :
If you want happiness for an hour, take a nap.
If you want happiness for a day, go fishing.
If you want happiness for a year,
“win a scholarship”.
If you want a lifetime of happiness, help somebody.
Stanley has a lake cabin on Sarah Lake. He taught many younger Chinese students and friends fishing lessons on his boat. I was lucky to know him and learned a lot from him.
These are words from CAAM: A 20th century pioneer of the Chinese community in Minnesota, Stanley’s vision, compassion and civic-mindedness is a role model for future generations to come. CAAM and all Chinese in Minnesota will forever be indebted to you.
Let me leave you with three hopes to carry forward:
1. Stay curious: The world always rewards those who dare to question and explore.
2. Embrace diversity: Your unique perspective, shaped by both cultures, can create a more inclusive future.
3. Remember your roots: No matter how far you go, honor those who supported you, and light the way for others.
To the teachers and parents—thank you. You are the unsung heroes behind these young achievers. And to our students: Today’s applause belongs to you, but tomorrow’s stage is even greater. This year’s 13 scholarships from $2,000 to $5,000 is our investment in you; the legacy you build with your talents will be its greatest return. From 2018 to 2024, CAAM has awarded $320,000 in scholarships to more than 100 Chinese American students in Minnesota.
During my time as CAAM president, I remember the following students along with many others who won the CAAM Scholarship:
Yishan Wong – was Reddit CEO, and Founder of reforestation company Terraformation.
Aaron Chou – Phd from Stanford University. Deputy Director of Fermilab’s Quantum Division.
Andrew Lee – Body and Oncology Radiology. Top Doctor Rising Star.
And many CAAM Dance Theater students.
……………..
May you continue to write brilliant stories with wisdom and warm the world with kindness. Thank you!