QUINCY — On a perfect, sunny Saturday afternoon, a full house gathered at the Ocean Side Adams Inn under an outdoor tent and gazebo for a memorable evening of celebration and community support. The Korean-American Citizens League of New England (KACL-NE) hosted its 2026 College Leadership and Civic Engagement Scholarship Fundraiser from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM on June 6, dedicated to honoring excellence in local youth and highlighting the contributions of a celebrated community leader. Before the formal festivities began, guests mingled and enjoyed a bountiful spread of barbecue and fresh salads.
The evening's program opened with remarks from KACL-NE Board Chair Mia Yeung, who then presented the historic "Moon Award" to Jimmy Liang, Chairman, Founder, and Restaurateur of the JP Fuji Group. Liang, one of Quincy’s own standout entrepreneurs, was recognized for his unwavering commitment to supporting the Korean-American community and for helping KACL-NE meet its vital goals in supporting local scholars. Liang accepted the honor with a speech expressing his gratitude to the organization and the community.
Following the award presentation, the focus shifted to the centerpiece of the evening: honoring eight outstanding students, ranging in age from 15 to 19, for their academic excellence and civic leadership. KACL-NE Vice Chair Bob Campbell and Board Member Julie Kim presented the scholarship awards as the recipients lined up on stage. The distinguished 2026 scholars included Darren Kim (Boston College), Eric Kim (Lexington High School), Isabella Kim (Lexington High School), Edward Kim (Acton-Boxborough Regional High School), Suzie Kim (Boston University), Hannah Lee (Brookline High School), Maggie Lee (Natick High School), and Simon Lee (Avon High School).
The event then transitioned into a lively entertainment segment featuring acclaimed comedian Helen Hong, known widely as a regular panelist on NPR’s Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me! and for her television appearances on shows like Silicon Valley and Never Have I Ever. Hong's impeccable comedic timing and hilarious life stories kept the audience laughing and applauding throughout her set. Her performance included lighthearted jokes about her parents' recent trip to Korea, the modeling-standard poise of Korean flight attendants, and the fundraiser itself. In the spirit of the charity event, Hong playfully called out random guests she suspected of having deep pockets, which brought roaring laughter from the crowd—including event sponsor Linda Champion, who is currently running for Suffolk District Attorney.
After the comedy show concluded, attendees gathered to converse, network, and take photos to commemorate the successful evening. The event was made possible through the profound generosity of its sponsors, which included the JP Fuji Group, Eastern Bank, the Boston Korean Business Association, the Council of Korean Americans, Tae-Tae’s Kimchi, Boston Korea, the Chinese American Heritage Foundation, and Linda Champion for District Attorney. KACL-NE extends its heartfelt thanks to all who have sponsored and continue to support their educational mission. For more information or to get involved, the organization can be reached at NewEnglandKACL@gmail.com.
By: John Russo
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