Asian Hall of Fame Heritage Gala Celebrates Iconic Philanthropists and Supports Women Scholarships

Celebrating Philanthropy and Empowerment at the Asian Hall of Fame Gala

On May 1, 2026, the Asian Hall of Fame will host a vibrant Heritage Gala at the iconic Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles. This event aligns with the celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, highlighting the contributions of diverse individuals in our communities. The evening is particularly noteworthy as it will also serve as a fundraiser for the Asian Hall of Fame's WIN-TESS Scholarship initiative, aimed at empowering girls and women from various backgrounds in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), entertainment, and athletics.

Tickets for this much-anticipated gala are already sold out, underscoring the community's enthusiasm for honoring this year’s inductees while supporting a noble cause. Melinda Rogers, the Chair of the Asian Hall of Fame Board, will be awarded the prestigious 2026 Woman of the Year honor, recognizing her exceptional contributions to philanthropy and community service. Her brother, Sir William Rogers, will present the award. The Rogers family oversees Union Rock Company, one of the world’s leading aggregate companies, which has played a crucial role in landmark infrastructure projects across the country, including the Grapevine Highway and Newport Beach’s The Wedge.

Since taking office last year, Melinda Rogers has significantly amplified the charitable impact of the Asian Hall of Fame, establishing partnerships and operations that foster cross-cultural collaboration. The recent launch of the WIN Alliance in Honolulu and initiatives aimed at establishing a future cultural center in Pasadena/San Gabriel Valley are a testament to this commitment to community outreach.

Among the evening’s highlights will be a special address by renowned author Loida Nicolas Lewis, the 2007 Asian Hall of Fame inductee. She will share insights from her memoir, Why Should Guys Have All the Fun? which chronicles her experiences as an Asian American woman navigating love, marriage, motherhood, and leading a billion-dollar enterprise, bringing awareness to the challenges and triumphs faced by women in leadership roles. Her late husband, Reginald Lewis, was celebrated as America’s first African American billionaire and the founder of TLC Beatrice, and his legacy continues to inspire many.

Additionally, the gala will feature its inaugural “Heritage Fashion Show,” proudly sponsored by Meridien Vacation Homes, showcasing both established models and new talent to further enrich the cultural celebration. Grammy voting member Maki Mae is set to perform songs from her upcoming album, and the evening will be enlivened by a lucky draw hosted by taiko artist Walter Nishinaka. Attendees can look forward to exciting prizes, including a signed guitar from pop icon Taylor Swift and an 18-karat gold ring donated by jeweler Vartan Kazanjian.

Doors open at 4:30 PM for guests to enjoy a selection of premium gifts and displays by the St. John brand, with the grand dinner commencing at 6 PM. Attire for the evening is black-tie formal, traditional attire, or formal wear, complemented by valet parking services at $35 and self-parking at $25.

All guests will receive free raffle tickets, collectible booklets, and signed copies of memoirs as keepsakes from this memorable celebration.

Media credential requests can be submitted online at Asian Hall of Fame.

Founded in 2004, the Asian Hall of Fame is dedicated to the public recognition of Asian and Pacific Islander cultures and to fostering greater collaboration across communities. Esteemed inductees include notable figures such as Connie Chung, Margaret Cho, and Fiona Ma, the California State Treasurer. Since 2022, the organization has generated $3.7 million in funds to create 1,870 jobs and support 210 grant partners. For more information, contact: [email protected] or call (626) 600-9418. Visit www.asianhalloffame.org for further details.