Asian Cultural Council Raises Over $1.6 Million at Rainbow Room Gala

May 13

May 13 Asian Cultural Council Raises Over $1.6 Million at Rainbow Room Gala

The Asian Cultural Council welcomed artists, philanthropists, and cultural leaders to the iconic Rainbow Room in New York City on Wednesday, May 6 for its 2026 Biennial Gala, raising an impressive $1,631,500 in support of the organization’s mission of fostering cultural exchange between the United States and Asia.

Celebrating the organization’s 63-year legacy, the evening honored Academy Award-winning actress Michelle Yeoh and longtime ACC supporter Wendy O’Neill for their contributions to international understanding, cultural dialogue, and the arts.

“The success of this year’s gala reflects our community’s deep commitment to cultural exchange,” said ACC Executive Director Judy Kim. “Michelle has redefined what is possible for Asian artists on the world stage, while Wendy’s leadership and dedication have helped shape ACC’s impact for generations of artists and cultural leaders.”

The evening featured performances from two distinguished ACC alumni: Grammy Award-winning violinist Jennifer Koh and acclaimed Indian Kuchipudi dancer Shantala Shivalingappa, whose performances highlighted the lasting artistic impact of ACC’s fellowship and exchange programs.

Michelle Yeoh received the 2026 Gala Honoree distinction for her groundbreaking career in film and longstanding humanitarian work. Over the course of more than sixty films, Yeoh has become one of the most influential Asian actresses in global cinema, with acclaimed performances in Everything Everywhere All at Once, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Crazy Rich Asians, Wicked, and Star Trek: Discovery. In addition to her work onscreen, she has spent the past decade serving as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme, advocating for vulnerable communities around the world.

Wendy O’Neill was presented with the 2026 Blanchette Hooker Rockefeller Award, which recognizes philanthropists who have made exceptional contributions to advancing understanding between Asia and the United States. O’Neill’s longstanding relationship with ACC includes more than fifteen years of leadership and eleven years serving as Chair of the Board of Trustees. Her work across organizations including the China Medical Board, Rockefeller Brothers Fund, and Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors has reflected a lifelong commitment to cross-cultural engagement and international collaboration.

Funds raised during the gala will support ACC’s grant programs for artists, scholars, and arts organizations around the world. Since its founding in 1963, ACC has awarded more than $100 million through approximately 6,000 fellowship exchanges spanning 16 artistic disciplines across 26 countries and regions.

Founded in New York City, the Asian Cultural Council continues to play a major role in supporting artists and strengthening cultural understanding through immersive international exchange programs that connect communities across Asia and the United States.