Young Alumni Philanthropists
Commenting on the endowment, Director of San Marino Schools Foundation Chris Kealey said, “When we first heard this, we thought they were alumni who had gone on to this career, and made a bunch of money in their career, and were coming back as alumni. And then we learned that they were current students, and we were in awe.”
San Marino Mayor Richard Sun was on hand for the endowment event and commended the Dong brothers for their philanthropy and generosity. “As the mayor of San Marino, we appreciate what you have done. You are setting a great example for all the community here.”
The signing event took place on April 7th at San Marino High School. Richard and Eric were joined by their parents Ed and Charity Dong, Mayor of San Marino Richard Sun, Director of San Marino Schools Foundation Chris Kealey, Principal of SMHS Mary Johnson, and Vice President of San Marino School Foundation Board of Trustee Jennifer Chuang.
Event Speech Given by Richard Dong:
“Nelson Mandela once said ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.’ It is our great honor to establish this endowment fund at our school to show our support, respect, gratitude, and friendship to the amazing community. The endowment is in honor of Mrs. Johnson in appreciation for her leadership, dedication, and commitment over the past 13 years as Principal and Vice Principal. Thank you Mrs. Johnson!
Eric and I are very proud that our investment earnings over the years since 2010 are put in use for this endowment fund, for which we have to thank our parents for teaching us the essentials of investing in the competitive financial market. We are proud to announce that this is our 2nd endowment. Our first happened in Clairbourn School three years ago. M
y brother Eric and I believe that education is the key for a great country like America. This is why our family has made several endowments including the ones in Harvard University. Through all these years in the field of supporting education, our favorite quote is “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”
Thanks to Mr. Kealey, Ms. Chuang, to San Marino Schools Foundation, to Mrs. Johnson, Mr. Berry, our counselor Mr. Chang, teachers and friends, of course my dad Edward and my mom Charity, for making today’s signing happen! Thank you! We believe that this is just the beginning of a long journey. With team work, we hope more students, alumni, parents and the whole community will support education so that students can better serve our great country in the future. A simple act of support and care to education for the younger generation creates endless ripple that turn into ocean wave! Together we can make the world a better place! Thank you, thank you all!”
(In addition to his philanthropy at San Marino High School, Richard also serves as a member of the US-China Committee of International Leadership Foundation.)
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