Meet the Planning Team & Advisors

Dr. Xiaoyan Zhang

Dr. Xiaoyan Zhang, Ph.D., is a sociologist, entrepreneur, and civic innovator whose work bridges cultures and generations. As an initiator of DOI250 and the National Conference Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Repeal of the Chinese Exclusion Act, he brings insight into social behavior, cultural dynamics, and community empowerment.

With experience in building and scaling businesses, advising startups, and leading both ethnic and mainstream organizations, he promotes inclusive participation with humility and focus. A former Entrepreneur of the Year and national advisor on public health policy, he has also served as Chair of UCA and Honorary Chair of ACUA. Known for connecting people across backgrounds—from dignitaries to grassroots leaders—he helps others lead and contribute with confidence. His leadership reflects respect for tradition and openness to collaboration, empowering diverse teams to build a more united and forward-looking society.

Wenbin Yuan

Wenbin Yuan is a matured and grounded “lead from behind” leader whose love of humor, lighthearted writings, care for others, and passion for non-profit causes make him a valued initiator of DOI250. He expresses ideas with clarity and purpose, bringing decades of experience not only in cross-cultural and cross-generational engagement, but also in serving recognizing community needs and knowing how organize them cross ethnic and political boundaries.

After moving to the United States and obtaining environmental engineering degree, Wenbin spent 28 years as an environmental engineer and a construction contractor, managing over $100 million in environmental cleanup and building projects for government and private clients. This work honed his skill in coordinating diverse personalities, agencies, and stakeholders. Alongside his professional career, he was one of the founders of Milwaukee’s modern Chinese School, Milwaukee Chinese Community Center, Milwaukee Chinese Times, and Wisconsin Chinese Chamber of Commerce—each created to serve the community in need.

His commitment to documentation of history is reflected in his co-authorship of the book “Chinese in Milwaukee”, preserving Chinese American history in the region. Influenced by his father, a master calligrapher, and shaped by his own lifelong study of poetry, literature, and writing, Wenbin values expression in writing as a way to connect, inspire, and preserve legacies. He carries these experiences into CRCEA80 and DOI250, ensuring history is remembered and communities’ missions are carried for the future.

Heping Xu

He Ping Xu is a writer and deep thinker whose passion for cultural understanding shapes his role in DOI250. A long-timer in both business and community engagement, he brings insight to preserving important narratives, including editing and contributing to the CRCEA80 commemoration and compilation book.

Born in Wuxi, Jiangsu, and a graduate of Nanjing Normal University’s Department of Foreign Languages, he began his career as a teacher before working in tourism, where he met people connected to Pearl S. Buck’s legacy. These encounters sparked his enduring interest in America’s constructive role in China and in the history of Chinese American immigrants. His early achievements span education, translation, international relations, and tourism management. Since immigrating to the U.S., he has promoted mutual respect through good citizenship, supported the growth of community Asian American museums, and built a career in the anti-aging biotechnology field, encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle.

Wilson Wong

Wilson Wong, a veteran entrepreneur and social activist of Hakka descent, has dedicated more than 30 years to advancing community development, multicultural integration, and public service in the United States. He currently serves as Chairman of the New York Community Legal Aid Center and Vice President of the Eastern U.S. Chapter of the World Hakka Association. His long-standing commitment to civic engagement and social impact was nationally recognized with the 2021 Presidential Award for Giving.

As founder of Yirui Culture Media, Wilson has led initiatives in film and television production, event planning, and full-media promotion. He has successfully hosted the CCTV Super Baby USA competition and spearheaded large-scale community events such as the New York Spring Festival Parade and the Mid-Autumn Festival Garden Party, both of which promoted cultural pride and unity within the Chinese and broader Asian American communities. He has also sponsored youth development programs, health seminars, and public interest legal aid while speaking out against anti-Asian violence.

Within DOI250, Wilson serves as a committee planning member, bringing his wealth of experience in organizing impactful events, fostering cross-cultural collaboration, and uniting communities. His insight strengthens DOI250’s mission to build trust, amplify diverse voices, and prepare for America’s 250th commemoration with vision and purpose.

David Sun

David Sun is an initiator of DOI250 and a quiet supporter of its mission to connect communities and elevate Asian American presence in America250. While his current professional and community obligations have limited his direct involvement, he remains engaged in spirit and is positioning himself to join more actively when possible. His wide network of professional contacts has helped strengthen and enhance past DOI250-related events to new levels of quality and visibility, complementing the contributions of others and supporting the collective mission.

Mr. Sun has built a diverse career as a journalist, director, artistic director, producer, president of a cultural company, and CEO of a business group, engaging in both business ventures and cultural exchanges between the United States and China. He participates in social welfare initiatives, supports Chinese American civil rights organizations, assists elected officials with campaigns, and contributes to community event planning. He currently serves as Vice President and Secretary-General of the USA–China Trade and Culture Association, Vice Chairman of the American–Chinese CEO Society, and is a founding member of the Chinese American Community Action Planning Committee.

Dr. Ji Su

Dr. Ji Su is an active contributor to DOI250 and America250 initiatives, recognized for his ability to connect people, ideas, and resources across communities. Within the programming and outreach committees, he serves as a trusted sounding board and helps shape retreats that foster collaboration and clarity. He is now a member of VA-York250 Committee.

Professionally, he is a materials scientist at a NASA research center and Chair of the National Council of Chinese Americans (NCCA), where he has also served as President. He co-chaired landmark events such as the 2016 Inaugural Chinese American Conference and the 2022 Summit of Cooperation of Chinese Americans, and served as a co-chair and the program committee lead in the 2023 Commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the Repeal of the Chinese Exclusion Act and the congressional apology for the 1840 Act.

Dr. Su actively defends the social rights of Chinese Americans and has led local organizations, including the VA–Peninsula Chinese American Association. He co-founded the NASA–Langley AAPI Committee, led projects such as adding Chinese captions to PBS’s Asian Americans, and organized the first nationwide AAPI Month seminar series. An avid fencer and humble team player, he is deeply interested in compiling a Chinese American ancestry database to build cultural roots, trace multiracial heritage, and promote inclusion—always guided by his principle: Do the right thing, and help get it done together.

Dr. Zhida Song-James

Dr. Zhida Song-James is an initiator and planning member of the DOI250 Committee, actively serving on the Programming, Outreach, and Local Event Subcommittees. She brings not only technical expertise but also a grounded, cross-cultural vision rooted in decades of community involvement. Dr. Song-James believes true integration begins at the grassroots level—through mutual respect, shared contribution, and historical recognition. She challenges the notion of a fixed “mainstream,” affirming instead that all communities are part of the American fabric when they engage rather than isolate. A strong advocate for including Asian American history and contributions in K–12 education, she has helped lead a national movement to ensure future generations grow up with a fuller understanding of American identity. Her lifelong dedication to civic unity and cultural education strengthens DOI250’s mission to bring Asian American stories visibly into the America250 commemoration.

Professionally, Dr. Song-James is a seasoned hydrologist, hydraulic engineer, history researcher, and writer with over 40 years of service. She contributed to national water resource standards through federal cross-agency teams and has worked with diverse, credible institutions. Her historical writings appear in the Historical Record of Chinese Americans, amplifying underrepresented narratives.

Dr. Abdoulaye Mbengue

Dr. Abdoulaye Mbengue, founder of the Xelkom Institute, is an internationally respected leadership coach specializing in cultural awareness, servant leadership, and effective leadership. Originally from Senegal, he brings the perspective of an African immigrant who understands the balance of honoring traditions while fully participating in mainstream America—a hybrid experience that resonates with Asian American communities.

He has trained business leaders, corporate professionals, and public servants, while also supporting Osiri University and Mayor John Smith Leasdership Institute in advancing leadership development. Dr. Mbengue frequently speaks at major national conferences and currently serves as the Director General for the World Conference of Mayors, where he promotes effective, ethical, sustainable, collaborative, and empowerment leadership. He has also supported numerous Asian American events, helping strengthen cross-cultural understanding.

As a DOI250 advisor, Dr. Mbengue enriches the planning committee with wisdom and practical tools that empower communities to lead with integrity and unity in America’s 250th anniversary.

Weihaur Lau

Weihaur (Wayhow) Lau, a 3rd-generation Chinese Malaysian who immigrated to the U.S. in 1997, serves as an advisor to the DOI250 Asian American Committee, contributing expertise in cross-cultural and intergenerational collaboration, leadership, and civic dialogue. He is the founder of BeAwaken Coaching and the nonprofit Awaken Inner Voices, empowering Asian professionals to break cultural barriers and lead with authenticity and purpose.

Weihaur brings over 25 years of experience in emotional intelligence, integrative health, and coaching. He formerly led public health programs at the Asian Pacific Islander Wellness Center and the San Francisco Department of Public Health, and served six years as co-chair of the San Francisco HIV Prevention Planning Council, representing diverse communities in health equity work.

A former coach with Landmark, he has led seminars of up to 300 people and coached over 5,000 individuals, including leaders at Google, Stanford, and across Silicon Valley.

Dr. Henry Chang-Yu Lee

The presence of Honorary Chair, Dr. Henry C. Lee, one of the world’s foremost forensic scientists, brings a unique depth of credibility and perspective to the DOI250 planning committee. Known globally as a pioneer in forensic science and celebrated for his contributions to solving some of the most complex cases of our time, Dr. Lee embodies the values of precision, truth-seeking, and service to society.

Dr. Lee inspires confidence and underscores the importance of integrity in this national initiative. His lifelong work bridging cultures—training professionals across more than 40 countries—mirrors DOI250’s mission of uniting communities across states, towns, and backgrounds. Dr. Lee’s experience as an educator and public speaker also strengthens the committee’s ability to shape programming that is both rigorous and accessible to the public.

His support encourages the planning committee to think broadly, plan carefully, and ensure that DOI250 leaves a lasting, meaningful impact for America’s 250th anniversary.

Dr. Chuck Li

Chuck Li is one of the initiators of DOI250, known for blending professionalism with a deep dedication to community and cultural heritage. The first in his family to attend college, his parents poured all their resources into sending him to Peking University—a privilege he values not only for its education, but for the network of people and opportunities it opened.

Chuck is a strong advocate for expanding Asian Americans’ access to quality education, believing that with thousands of years of cultural heritage and a tradition of moral integrity, education and responsibility go hand in hand. When given opportunity and guidance, he believes Asian Americans can contribute greatly to the strength and harmony of society. Drawing on decades of professional experience in IT, banking and finance, he works to increase public understanding of Asian American history in K-12 education and beyond.

Grounded and approachable, Chuck also enjoys framing calligraphy and paintings, gardening, and preparing hometown dishes. His insight, values, and steady leadership help DOI250 document and share Asian American legacies for generations to come.

Lewis Liu

Lewis Liu is one of the initiators and planning members of the DOI250 Asian American Committee, contributing historical insight, public messaging strategy, and national coordination. A civic leader and independent scholar, Lewis writes under the pen name “Hai Kuo Tian Kong”, with widely read publications on American history, politics, the Constitution, and Chinese American contributions—garnering over three million reads.

He holds an MBA in Finance from New York University and spent over 22 years as a global executive in financial services across North America, Western Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

Lewis was a lead initiator and organizing committee member of the National Conference to Commemorate the 80th Anniversary of Repealing the Chinese Exclusion Act, where he served as Spokesperson and Chief Editor of the official website and compilation book.

He currently works for the U.S. Census Bureau as a Supervisory Public Affairs Specialist, overseeing media relations with Asian American communities nationwide.

Steve Hugh

Steve Hugh is the Founding Chairman of UCA Illinois, Founder and Chairman of the U.S. Asian American Leadership Council, and CEO of Superior Brands Corporation & All Trans Int’l Chicago Ltd. A long-time advocate for Asian American unity and civic engagement, Steve has hosted major leadership events across the Greater Chicago area and maintains strong relationships with government officials and community leaders who support Asian American advancement.

He played a key role in the CRCEA80 national commemoration, helping connect speakers, secure meeting venues, and resolve challenges with humility and grace. A faith-driven Christian, Steve leads with quiet strength and is a trusted figure in many professional and community networks nationwide.

As a DOI250 Asian American Committee member, Steve is committed to uplifting the legacy and leadership of Asian Americans in the U.S. Constitution’s 250th commemoration—believing unity, values, and participation are essential to shaping America’s future with purpose and pride.

Jack Hanna

Jack Hanna, a third-generation Syrian Arab American and retired attorney with over 40 years of legal and civic experience, serves as Chair of the Outreach Subcommittee for the DOI250 Asian American Committee. A longtime political activist and social justice advocate, Jack recently returned to his hometown in the Pittsburgh area after six years in Portland, Oregon. There, he actively supported Asian American advocacy, civic engagement, and public safety initiatives—including the 2020 Census and local candidate campaigns.

He served two years as co-chair of Portland’s Building Bridges program, collaborating with the U.S. and Oregon Justice Departments, law enforcement, and community leaders to address safety in communities of color. Jack also represented his district at seven consecutive Democratic National Conventions.

Now with DOI250, he is honored to help elevate and promote the often-overlooked history and impact of Asian Americans in the United States over the past 250 years through outreach and cross-community engagement.

Celine Fang

Celine Fang serves as the Executive Director and co-initiator of DOI250, where she contributes coordination, continuity, and creative strategy to national efforts that highlight Asian American presence and contributions in the 250th commemoration of the Declaration of Independence. She joined the initiative to support its leadership and ensure clear messaging, effective collaboration, and long-term visibility.

Born in China and raised in the U.S. since age 13—with two generations of family rooted in Southeast Asia—Celine brings a flexible cultural lens and a deep understanding of cross-community dynamics. As a graphic designer and funding advisor, she has supported countless projects across sectors, helping entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds communicate effectively, strengthen their brand presence, and access practical resources.

She is the founder of Busi-Boost, a platform that empowers business owners through funding strategies, brand development, and leadership tools. It also offers engaging and accessible learning resources that help immigrants build confidence navigating U.S. business, financial, and cultural systems—reducing misunderstandings and promoting stronger workplace and community collaboration. Topics include workplace etiquette, communication norms, professional integration, etc.

Celine also contributed to the CRCEA80 initiative by supporting its website, video production, and compilation book. She serves as a civilian contributor to the World Conference of Mayors and provides strategic guidance to local chambers and nonprofit organizations.

Kenny Chen

Kenny Chen represents resilience, hard work, and dignity—values that define his life journey and his contributions to the Chinese American community. As Co-Chairman of the American Chinese United Association (ACUA), he helps lead a national organization with 23 chapters across the United States and thousands of members. His involvement ensures that Chinese Americans stand visibly as part of America’s 250th anniversary commemoration.

A successful entrepreneur in catering, real estate investment, and development, Mr. Chen has built businesses through persistence and vision while dedicating himself to public service, philanthropy, and community development. He currently serves as President of ACUA’s Greater Washington Chapter, while also holding leadership positions in several U.S.-China business and community associations.

As a member of the DOI250 Planning Committee, Kenny Chen contributes not only his personal resilience and experience but also his willingness to extend support from his networks, strengthening the reach and impact of this national initiative.