Melinda Rogers Assumes Leadership at Asian Hall of Fame Board

In a historic move, the Asian Hall of Fame Board of Governors has elected Melinda Rogers as its new Chairwoman. Rogers, a fourth-generation member of a Californian family specializing in sand, rock, and gravel, steps into this pivotal role aiming to heighten the visibility and opportunities for Asian Americans in various sectors.

This election marks a new chapter for the Asian Hall of Fame, which for the past 21 years has evolved from a private ceremony into a significant global ambassador advocating for the Asian legacy and promoting the ideals of the American Dream. The organization seeks to foster interracial collaboration and open pathways to success for all communities.

Rogers will join a distinguished leadership team that includes Chairman Charlie Zhang, founder of Pick Up Stix, and Honorary Chair Noel Lee, the founder of Monster. The team’s immediate focus is the upcoming Induction 2025 fundraiser, highlighted by the recent Murakami Soirée which took place on August 28. This event awarded scholarships to high school and college women from diverse backgrounds pursuing careers in the entertainment industry, emphasizing the Hall's commitment to uplifting women and underrepresented groups.

Since its inception, the Asian Hall of Fame has provided substantial support to the community. From 2021 alone, it has successfully nurtured 61 fellows and generated over 1,250 job opportunities while investing millions in direct social initiatives. These initiatives particularly benefit women, trauma survivors, and those advocating for heritage narratives, showcasing the organization's holistic approach to community support.

Upcoming fundraising initiatives will take place in various cities, including Portland, Pasadena, Bellevue, Los Angeles, and Glendale, with a particular focus on the philanthropic pillar "Women In Tech, Entertainment, Sports". This program allocates crucial scholarships to underserved women, illustrating the Hall's dedication to promoting equality and representation in industries that have traditionally lacked diverse voices.

The culmination of the year’s efforts will occur at the 21st Induction Ceremony set for November 1, 2025, at the iconic Biltmore Los Angeles. This event not only celebrates the achievements of outstanding individuals but will also be broadcast to an estimated 72 million households across America, amplifying the reach and influence of the Asian Hall of Fame.

At the Murakami soirée, numerous notable figures attended, from corporate executives like Andrew Moy of Wells Fargo to influential leaders like Grand Capital's Lily Liu. Their participation underscores the collective commitment to fostering a supportive ecosystem for Asian Americans and other marginalized groups. Special guests included previous inductee Larry Li and members from various sectors demonstrating a united front for diversity and inclusion.

The Asian Hall of Fame remains devoted to advancing its mission of nurturing and giving back to the community while honoring the rich heritage and contributions of Asian Americans. As Rogers assumes her role, she is set to expand the initiatives and engage more allies into the movement of racial equity and opportunity for every aspiring individual.

For more information about the Asian Hall of Fame and their programs, please visit asianhalloffame.org.