2023 CALA Distinguished Service Award Recipient

On behalf of the CALA Outstanding Service Award Committee, we are thrilled to announce Ms. Hong Yao is the recipient of the 2023 CALA Distinguished Service Award. Please join us in extending our heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Yao on this remarkable achievement!

This prestigious award recognizes individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership and achievement in library and information services, with significant contributions to CALA and the advancement of Chinese American librarianship.

Ms. Yao has a remarkable record as a CALA leader and organizer of program opportunities for CALA members. Her leadership extends beyond CALA, as she also serves as ALA Councilor-at-Large (2022-2025) and OCLC Global Council Delegate ARC Chair (2022-2023). Her contributions in these roles have been invaluable.

As CALA aims to promote the development of Chinese and American librarianship, Ms. Yao's outstanding leadership has greatly assisted CALA in achieving its strategic goals. Her dedication can be seen through her roles as CALA President, CALA Vice President/President Elect, and member of various CALA committees.

Ms. Yao's leadership has facilitated valuable connections and fundraising efforts. She led a CALA team to participate in the Shanghai International Library Forum and organized a program that enabled CALA members to engage directly with library directors and education heads from Taiwan. Her successful fundraising initiatives have supported CALA's programs and provided travel grants to members.

In her national and international leadership roles, including ALA Councilor-at-Large, Ms. Yao has proposed resolutions honoring esteemed CALA members and celebrating CALA's 50th anniversary. She has presented at conferences and organized engaging author programs, showcasing her commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Ms. Yao's dedication and achievements have been well recognized. Her unwavering pursuit of excellence has helped librarians and CALA make valuable contributions to the global library community. Congratulations to Ms. Yao on this truly deserved achievement!

Best Service Awards Subcommittee

Co-Chairs: Lei Jin & Feng-Ru Sheu

Member: Buenaventura (Ven) Basco