Theme: Rooted in Heritage, Growing Knowledge, Shaping the FutureDates: June 23–24, 2025 | Extended Events: June 28, July 3 & July 4Location: University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) & Online via Zoom
The Asian Culture and Education Society USA (ACAESUSA) proudly concluded its 2025 Annual Conference—a vibrant, multi-day celebration of Asian American heritage, education, STEM advancement, and youth leadership. Under the theme Rooted in Heritage, Growing Knowledge, Shaping the Future, the event united students, scholars, educators, artists, and families across generations and disciplines.
Held at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) from June 23–24, with extended activities continuing through July 4, the conference featured over 100 contributors including speakers, performers, and youth moderators from across the country.
Special Thanks to Mayor Jim Ross
We were honored to welcome Mayor Jim Ross of Arlington, TX, who joined us in person to deliver a powerful keynote address. His inspiring words emphasized cultural pride, civic engagement, and youth empowerment—energizing attendees and reinforcing ACAESUSA’s mission to build leadership rooted in heritage and purpose.
Honoring Our Supporters
Our deepest appreciation goes to SMU President Jay C. Hartzell, who, despite scheduling conflicts, sent warm congratulations and best wishes to the ACAESUSA community. We also extend gratitude to University Park City Mayor Thomas H. Stewart, who offered his support and encouragement, even though illness prevented him from attending. Their ongoing advocacy means so much to our organization and youth participants.
Conference Highlights
Day 1 – June 23, 2025
The conference opened with welcome remarks by Jan Xie, President of ACAESUSA, and Professor Shouyi Wang, who served as the 2025 Conference Chair. Professor Wang, a UTA expert in AI and analytics and an ACAESUSA Advisory Board Member, helped guide the development of this year’s academic focus and STEM track.
We were also honored to have Dr. Sampson Gholston, Chair and Professor in the Department of Industrial, Manufacturing, and Systems Engineering at UTA, deliver a special welcome on behalf of the university. Dr. Gholston introduced UT Arlington’s engineering programs and spoke on topics such as Engineering Statistics, Quality Engineering and Management, and Lean Six Sigma—encouraging students to pursue innovation and excellence in STEM fields.
STEM & Engineering Panels
Dr. Shuchi Deb – Innovation in Human-Machine Systems
Dr. Baohong Yuan – Advances in Biomedical Engineering
Dr. Junzhou Huang – AI and Smart Systems
Dr. Linda Wang – Data Science in Aerospace Engineering
AAPI Education & History
Dr. Zhida Song-James – Teaching Asian American History in K–12
Culture & Performance
Kaixin, Happy Dance Studio – Choreography and cultural storytelling through dance
Mental Health
Deborah Min, Alliant International University – Supporting Youth Mental Wellness
Entrepreneurship & Business Skills
Jie Song, InnoFirst Capital – From Startup to Leadership in Tech
Public Health & Wellness
Dr. Ji Qian, Texas A&M – Emotional Health & Public Awareness
Dr. Wei Tang, Baylor Scott & White – Neuromuscular Disease & Community Health
Youth Leadership Panels Youth presenters led conversations on civic involvement, service, and cultural advocacy.
Storytelling & Impact
Dr. Ji Qian – Shared stories of resilience and community voices
College Readiness
Andrew Xu – Academic strategies for AAPI college-bound youth
Closing Remarks
Dr. Lo, Chair of AAUC
Hua Wang, Chair of UCA
Cultural Night Celebration
The day concluded with a festive Cultural Night, where attendees enjoyed:
Traditional Asian BBQ and live hand-pulled noodle demonstrations
A vibrant Er Ren Zhuan handkerchief dance workshop
Performances, including classic folk songs such as “Riding the Bridal Sedan”by members of the ACAE Fat Ni BBQ Chapter
World of Love Art Exhibition at UTA
As part of Day 1, ACAESUSA proudly presented the debut of its annual “World of Love Art” exhibition at the University of Texas at Arlington. This meaningful showcase uses visual art to spark awareness, empathy, and advocacy among youth and the broader community.
The 2024–2025 theme, “Support Autism & Mental Health Students,” focused on raising visibility for neurodiverse children and students facing emotional health challenges. Through powerful and personal works, young artists illustrated the importance of inclusion, understanding, and compassion—especially in educational and social environments. The upcoming 2025–2026 theme, “Brushes Blooming for the Girls,” invites artists of all ages from around the world to celebrate girlhood, promote well-being, and honor resilience. This year’s exhibition carries a deeply emotional message: a gentle remembrance of children—especially girls—whose lives were lost too soon due to disaster, hardship, or violence.
During his visit, Mayor Jim Ross praised the World of Love Art exhibition for its vision, purpose, and emotional power. He commended ACAESUSA and the student artists for channeling creativity into healing and advocacy, making a lasting impact through the arts.
June 28: Art Workshop with Artist Hong Yan
The artist Hong Yan led a hands-on art session encouraging creativity and mindfulness through apple-themed painting. Families and students explored traditional brush techniques while embracing artistic self-expression.
July 3: STEM Lab Tour at SMU
A highlight of the extended programming was a special STEM-focused campus and lab tour at Southern Methodist University (SMU). Nearly 50 students and parents participated in this immersive educational experience led by ACAESUSA President Jan Xie and Dr. Zhihao Wu, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences at SMU and ACAESUSA Advisory Board Member.
Faculty Hosts Included:
Dr. Richard Jones, Chair, Department of Biological Sciences
Assistant Professor Jonathan Hibshman
Assistant Professor Dr. Zhihao Wu
Participants explored:
Wu Lab: Research on neurodegeneration and mitochondrial quality control using fruit fly models
Hibshman Lab: Investigations into stress survival using tardigrades and C.elegans
Preview of Schretter Lab (opening in 2026): Studying sensory cues and social behavior
ACAESUSA Joins 4th of July Parade
In celebration of Independence Day, ACAESUSA proudly participated in the 2025 Park Cities 4th of July Parade organized by the Rotary Club of Park Cities. Despite steady rain, our multigenerational team—including students, adult volunteers, and seniors—marched with enthusiasm and unity, led by Dr. Zhihao Wu.
At the parade’s conclusion, ACAESUSA President Jan Xie had the honor of meeting Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins, who warmly praised the group’s spirit and impact.
We are especially grateful for the kind words from Dr. Glynis Worthington, Rotary member and Ms. Senior World 60s 2025:
“Your involvement made one of our community’s most beloved traditions even more memorable… Your participation truly matters.”
We look forward to returning next year to celebrate America’s 250th birthday with even greater joy and unity!
Empowering the Next Generation
ACAESUSA recognized dozens of youth leaders who played vital roles throughout the event—from moderating panels and introducing speakers to managing logistics and virtual programming.
Award recipient names will be announced soon.Stay tuned for an upcoming spotlight on these inspiring students and their leadership achievements.
“Empowering youth to lead is not just symbolic—it equips them to be tomorrow’s changemakers,” said ACAESUSA President Jan Xie.
With Gratitude
Our sincere thanks go to our generous partners and supporters. Special recognition to:
Your support makes programs like this possible and helps ACAESUSA continue building bridges through culture, education, and leadership.
Recordings & Materials Coming Soon
Full session videos and Zoom resources will be available shortly at: www.acaesusa.org
Main VenueUTA SWSH Building, Room 104501 W Mitchell St, Arlington, TX 76010
Stay Connectedinfo@acaesusa.org #ACAESUSA2025 #AAPIYouthLead #STEM4All #RootedInHeritage #July4Parade
Let’s remain rooted in heritage, grow in knowledge, and shape a brighter future—together.
Creative CreditsEditor: Samuel Wu, James Wang, Jindi Chai
Visual Designer: Jessica WuPhotographers: Jarvis Jacobs, Ryan Luo, Yong Wang, Jan Xie,
Special thanks to the ACAESUSA Internship team for their dedication and creativity in capturing and presenting the spirit of the event!