Two Cupertino Groups Honored as Asian American Heroes

Two Cupertino based organizations were among the honorees at the Annual Asian American Heroes Awards ceremony at the in Cupertino on Nov. 1.

“Today we celebrate individuals and organizations whose actions strengthen the foundation of our community, and the spirit that encourages others to follow,” said Santa Clara County Supervisor Liz Kniss at the awards ceremony. “Each one of us has the opportunity to give to the community, and lifting up those who serve others is truly my honor.”

The California Arts Association and Intercultural and International Studies Division, Asian and Asian American Studies Department at De Anza College were among 14 groups and individuals to receive the award.

Recognized for introducing the cultural heritage of India to the region, the California Arts Association, represented by Mukund Marathe, was also honored for brining plays, short musical presentations, dance programs, art experiences and live performances to Cupertino and surrounding cities.

Michael Chang, department chair of the Asian American Studies at De Anza, represented the school and the department for its “breadth of cultural studies curricula for students of all ages,” Kniss said.

“De Anza has set a high standard in the realm of Asian studies, and I want to recognize that accomplishment, as well as those individuals who work together to build and keep such an outstanding department.”

The award program began in 2001 as a way to recognize “outstanding Asian Americans for their remarkable commitment to leadership, health and human services, the arts, education, and community spirit in Santa Clara County,” Kniss said.