Asian Hall of Fame and WIN Guild Honor Key Contributors at Starlight Benefit in Pasadena (Photo – Sheri Determan)
The Asian Hall of Fame, a global platform dedicated to recognizing the achievements of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, in partnership with the Women Investing in Nurses (WIN) Guild, celebrated a milestone at their Pasadena launch event on September 20. The Starlight Benefit, held at a local venue, marked the first event hosted in Pasadena by the two organizations, furthering their shared commitment to philanthropy, education, and empowerment.
By News Desk
Founded 13 years ago, WIN started as a donor circle supporting nurses and healthcare professionals in San Marino, Arcadia, and Orange County. The group expanded its influence in May of this year by joining forces with the Asian Hall of Fame. Together, they aim to increase their impact on the healthcare industry and broader communities, with a special focus on advancing women’s roles in the medical field.
A highlight of the evening was the appearance of Miss Asia USA, Nicole Ho, who was introduced as the 2025 Asian Hall of Fame Cultural Ambassador. Ho, a pre-med student at La Sierra University, spoke passionately about bridging cultural gaps in medicine and encouraging young women to pursue careers in healthcare.
The event featured stellar performances from a lineup of talented artists, including Joe Calderon, Maki Mae, American Idol’s Malea Emma Tjandrawidjaja, and Aubrey Leonard, with a special performance by Academy of Magic Arts student Max Bradley. These performances added an electric, celebratory energy to the evening, which also honored key contributors to both the WIN Guild and Asian Hall of Fame.
Notable honorees included Carol and Chris McGuire of the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation, who have been instrumental in supporting various charitable causes, and the WIN Guild expansion founders: Kathy Antoci, Debbi Cordano, Irene Deak, Susan Hanson, Yumi Johnson, Ellie Lloyd, Melinda Rogers, Patty Soldo, and Cyndi Olsen, daughter of the late philanthropist Lilah Stangeland.
The Asian Hall of Fame also recognized its Board Chairwoman, Melinda Rogers, and leaders such as Kristen Lui, Andy Henry of Disney Studios, John Nicholas of Pinnacle Worldwide, Judge Jamie Louie, Patty Soldo, Ada Wong, and Yumi Johnson for their significant contributions to the organization’s mission.
The event was well-attended by community leaders and philanthropists, including EisnerAmper, Kitty Lo of the Manhattan Hotel Group, Kimberly Vodang of 24Vegan, and various figures from Orange County.
Since its inception in 2020, the Asian Hall of Fame has inducted 63 fellows and generated an impressive $3.7 million in direct impact. Notable inductees include media icon Connie Chung, Olympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi, former East West Bank President Julia Gouw, and martial arts legend Bruce Lee. This year, the event’s beneficiary, Shriners Children’s Pasadena, will receive a grant designed to empower women to become pediatric surgeons, continuing the theme of advancing healthcare and gender equality.
Starlight Benefit in Pasadena (Photo – Sheri Determan)
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