AUSTIN, TEXAS – The evening of December 16, 2011 marked a new tradition for UT’s Asian American community as alumni convened at the Etter-Harbin Alumni Center for the very first Texas Exes Asian Alumni Network Winter Reunion. Festive lights and holiday music set the scene at the Connally Banquet Hall as over seventy attendees mingled and dined over fine food and drinks. The Winter Reunion is a reception that honors one exemplary alum for outstanding community contributions. All proceeds from the event benefit the Texas Exes Asian Alumni Network Scholarship.

For 2011, TEAAN recognized the personal achievements of Dr. Mitchel Wong of Austin Eye for his innovative work in ophthalmology and long-standing legacy in Austin, Texas. In his keynote speech titled “Chinese in Texas,” Dr. Wong described his family’s history and the decisions he made toward becoming the person he is today. He stressed the importance behind the pursuit of knowledge and concluded with these final words: “Work hard and resist feeling entitled.”

The rest of the event was full of excitement as attendees tried their luck at bau cua to win raffle tickets and eagerly placed bids in the silent auction. The event raised over $1,500, all of which go into the Texas Exes Asian Alumni Network Scholarship Fund.  The first TEAAN scholarship will be distributed in the amount of $1,500 to one incoming UT student with financial need. The scholarship will be awarded in honor of Dr. Mitchel Wong.

The Texas Exes Asian Alumni Network would like to thank their generous sponsors and volunteers whose time and contributions made this first event a huge success. Without their support, this event would otherwise not have been possible, and it looks like it is now the first of many to follow. Check out more event photos on the Texas Exes Asian Alumni Network Facebook Group.

• Ac. Royal Medical Group
• Alamo Drafthouse
• Angel’s Nest Bed and Breakfast
• AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center
• Austin’s Pizza
• Blanton Museum of Art
• Four Seasons
• Hey Cupcake!
• Juicytart
• Mikado Ryotei
• Paramount Theatre
• PhoNatic
• Texas Performing Arts
• Texas Sake
• Tito’s Vodka
• Uchi
• University Co-op
• UT Golf Club
• Violet Crown Cinema
• Zhi Tea