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Recent News from NYAWC Board of Directors

Deborah Chan Honored at CUNY AAARI Annual Gala

Debbie Chan Photo

NYAWC Board member and longtime supporter Deborah Chan was awarded the CUNY Distinguished Asian American Special Joint Alumni Award at CUNY AAARI (Asian American/Asian Research Institute)'s 2015 Annual Gala. This award is a testament to her leadership, achievement, and commitment to improving the lives of those in need. She shares this award with her husband, Nelson Louis, Executive Director of the Ong Family Foundation, which has been one of NYAWC's most dedicated and generous philanthropic supporters for over a decade.

"To inspire, lead and give to others who are in need, kindness has no thought of any reward!" said Debbie. "My involvement with NYAWC has further strengthened my commitment to philanthropy and advocating for the Asian community, and I hope to continue providing leadership and advocacy work to the Board and services of NYAWC."

This honor is incredibly special for Debbie, who is a proud CUNY alumna and graduate of LaGuardia Community College, Baruch College, and CUNY Law School at Queens College. She founded her own private practice, the Law Firm of Deborah Chan, P.C., which specializes in the areas of trusts and estate planning. It will celebrate its 20th anniversary next year.

Yogesh Bahl Recognized for Dedication to Women's Rights

NYAWC congratulates Yogesh Bahl on receiving Ascend's annual Inspiring Across Generations: High Impact Leader Award, which recognizes his mentorship work with Ascend since 2010 and his championing for women's rights, specifically through his work with NYAWC. Yogesh, who is currently the Managing Director of Financial Advisory Services at AlixPartners, joined the Board in 2013 and has co-chaired the 2014 and 2015 Benefit Galas. "Receiving this award is humbling and rewarding but most importantly, it provides NYAWC and its mission with market exposure. I look forward to getting our organization and its staff more recognition in the future."

Newest Board Member Sejal Patel Will Chair 2016 Gala

NYAWC welcomes our newest Board member Sejal Patel, Vice President of Strategic Development at Houlihan Lokey. Sejal was formerly a Senior Manager at Deloitte and has an extensive professional background in legal consulting. She is the chair of NYAWC's 34th Anniversary Benefit Gala this November. "I look forward to bringing excitement and awareness about NYAWC with new fundraising events and revenue streams that have a unique branding approach to inspire new people to get involved," says Sejal. "I can't wait to see the ways in which the organization evolves to impact more women across the country.