24 June 2009

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 Miss Asian American Colorado

Miss Asian American Colorado Finale Show

Saturday, May 30th, 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM
Teikyo Loretto Heights University Theater

Opening
Emcees: Joneil Custodio and Kim Nguyen
Introduce 2009 Judges
Welcome Speech by Annie Guo, Director and Kenneth Phi, Chair

Bollywood West Performance

Slumdog Millionaire’s “Jai Ho”

Bollywood West is Denver & Boulder’s first and largest Bollywood and Indian-fusion dance studio.
Voted “Best of Denver 2009” by Westword. Under the artistic direction of Renu Kansal, the
Bollywood West dance troupe is the first of its kind in the region and our quarterly “Passport To
Bollywood” is the most unique cultural nightlife event outside of India. As featured in the New
York Times, Washington Post, LA Times, MSN, CBS/NBC/and ABC News, and on the red carpet of
the premiere of “Slumdog Millionaire”—Bollywood West is Colorado’s Indian dance ambassador!
www.bollywoodwest.com

Meet the 2009 Candidates in Cultural Attire

“I love being an Asian American woman because…”

Miss AACO Welcome Video

Sponsor Recognitions

Part I
4 service questions (1-4)
4 talents (5-8)
4 service questions (9-12)
5 talents (13-17)

Intermission (10 minutes)

Service Groups Presentation
Part II
4 talents (1-4)
4 service questions (5-8)
4 talents (9-12)
5 service questions (13-17)

2008 Miss AACO, Duacee Lor, Introduction and Video

Big Sisters and 2008 Candidates

Closing Video
Final Results and Crowning
Miss Network Savvy, Miss Talent, Miss Asian American Activist

Second Runner-up Miss Impact

First Runner-up Miss Unity
2009 Miss Asian American Colorado

Asian Avenue magazine 25

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 SPECIAL EDITION

May 30, 2009

Greetings:

On behalf of the State of Colorado, I would like to welcome you to the 2009 Miss Asian American Colorado
Leadership Program.

The valuable life skills participants will take from this event will be a great asset for each individual’s future. Today’s
program will teach the many in attendance the beauty of the diversity of Asian-American culture. Each participant has
the opportunity to become a leader of the future, and it is my pleasure to thank them for setting a positive example for
others to follow.

Once again, welcome to this year’s 2009 Miss Asian American Women’s Leadership Program. Good luck to all
participants, you have my best wishes now and for the years to come.

Sincerely,

Bill Ritter, Jr.

Governor

May 30th, 2009

The National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP) is proud to be a part of the 2009 Miss Asian American Colorado Leadership
Program.

Its mission to provide the tools and building blocks for Asian American women in Colorado to grow in their self-
confidence, activism and voice is extremely admirable. NAAAP looks forward to developing a long-term relationship
with and supporting a model program which cultivates young APA women.

NAAAP’s newest signature program is the Women In NAAAP (WIN) initiative which will be launched this year.
Having specific opportunities which provide a venue for leadership, support and mentoring for Asian women addresses
a huge need in the Asian American community. We look forward to seeing how we can collaboratively work together in
cultivating and creating a pipeline for Asian women leadership.

As part of this year’s NAAAP National Convention, which will be held in Denver from August 13-16th at the Hyatt
Regency, we would like to recognize and highlight Miss AACO as a young, promising leader in our community.

Warmest Regards,

Brad Baldia
President & Chairman, NAAAP National
www.naaap.org
www.naaapconvention.org

The National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that cultivates, supports, and promotes Asian American
leaders. NAAAP offers professional development opportunities on the local and national level, engages its membership in community service, and organizes
professional networking events. Through NAAAP, members work together to enhance leadership in their careers and communities.

26 June 2009

MissAACO_Program.indd 3 5/21/09 10:07:45 PM

 Miss Asian American Colorado

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www.pacificmercantile.com
Tel: 720.941.0967 (voicemail) • Cell: 303.929.1246
Asian Avenue magazine 27

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 SPECIAL EDITION

Mission of Miss AACO Leadership Program

Asian Avenue magazine and the Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network are proud to present the second
annual Miss Asian American Colorado event based on the premise that our world depends on the leadership of
today’s youth and today’s women. Our mission is to:
• Showcase the leadership, service, intelligence and individual talent of young Asian American women
• Increase public awareness of the diversity and strengths of the Asian American community
• Encourage unity and understanding among Asian Americans in Colorado
• Provide scholarships to talented Asian American women
• Build a network between Asian American women, who undergo similar life and career experiences, that
may further develop into friendships and/or mentorships

Our objective gives Asian American women in Colorado a sense of purpose and contribution to the growing
community. We challenge conventional notions of beauty, culture, and intelligence, by emphasizing not on
appearance but beauty that radiates within. Beauty and intelligence make these Asian American women, future
leaders for Colorado’s Asian community. The one-year experience develops leadership, friendships, teamwork, and
interpersonal skills through group activities including community relations, public speaking, and philanthropic events.
Most importantly, candidates enrich their self-confidence to a level where they can challenge themselves to achieve
their goals with diligence, grace, intellect and style. But above all, we have fun!

Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network (CACEN) is a non-profit organization that develops
services and activities to promote Asian cultural education and awareness. Its vision is to preserve cultural values and
heritage through activities and programs, which highlight, celebrate, share and teach the virtues and foundations of
Asian cultures. In addition to the Miss AACO leadership program, CACEN organizes the Joy of Living Club Film Series,
Next Generation Voices student conference and Asian American Heroes Awards.

Asian Avenue magazine (AAm) is the first English magazine, started in 2006, featuring Asian businesses, events,
dining and lifestyle in the Denver/Boulder area. The mission at Asian Avenue magazine is to build bridges of awareness,
knowledge and understanding between the diverse Asian Pacific American (APA) communities and the general
public through cultural insights, pop culture, news and information. To reflect its mission, AAm plans to program events
that reveal the rich traditions of APA culture, history, and philosophies to give mainstream society a more complete
picture of APA perspectives. In this regard, AAm is pleased to host the Miss AACO program.

Miss Asian American Colorado exemplifies what every woman should be: empowered, intelligent, and
compassionate. Miss AACO redefines traditional perceptions of beauty, specifically Asian American beauty, by
emphasizing the importance of beauty that radiates from within. Candidates are ages 18-25, residents of Colorado,
and single (unmarried).

Miss AACO will be a role model within and a spokesperson for the Asian American community from June 2009 – June
2010. The 2009 winner must commit to her one-year title, which will include attending events such as: Colorado Dragon
Boat Festival, diversity fairs and conferences, city and state events, service projects, Asian American community
events, and more!

Miss Asian American Colorado will attend the National Association of Asian American Professionals’ National
Convention in Denver from August 13th to 16th, 2009 at the Hyatt Regency Denver. She will represent the Miss AACO
organization at this event. Additionally, Miss AACO must fulfill her service project essay during her leadership. She will
also organize bi-monthly service projects to reunite the 2009 Miss AACO candidates through volunteerism.

Titles The winner of the 2009 Miss Asian American Colorado will carry the title for one year, during which time she will
represent the Asian American community in her new leadership role. In addition, she will receive a $1000 check along
with a crown, sash and prizes, and will be featured on the cover of July 2009’s Asian Avenue magazine.
Miss Unity, First runner-up - $700 scholarship with crown, sash and prizes
Miss Impact, Second runner-up - $500 scholarship with crown, sash and prizes
Miss Talent – Awarded for the best talent score
Miss Network Savvy – Awarded for the most sponsors and audience support
Miss Asian American Activist Award – Awarded for involvement in Asian American community

Judging Guidelines
1) Program Involvement - attendance, attitude, participation (10%)
2) Group Service Project Completion (10%)
3) Preliminary Interview (25%)
- Round-robin interviews based on academic achievement, leadership, service, confidence, personality, and attitude
4) Introduction in Cultural Attire “I love being an Asian American (woman) because…” (15%)
5) Talent 3-4 minutes (20%)
6) On-Stage Service Essay Interviews 1 minute (20%)

28 June 2009

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 Miss Asian American Colorado

2009 Finale Show Emcees

Kim Nguyen Joneil M. Custodio

Managing Editor, The Denver Diversity Relationship Manager,
Channel 7News Prudential

Kim Nguyen helped launch As Diversity Relationship Man-

TheDenverChannel in January
2001. She was previously the
Managing Editor of Channel2000.
com in Los Angeles, the Web site
for KCBS-TV.
Prior to that she worked as a
producer and news reporter for a
Citi-CABLE Ch. 22, a cable station
in Torrance, Calif., and wrote feature articles for Valley
Vantage, a paper covering the San Fernando Valley.
Kim is responsible for the overall operation of the Web site,
and has been with TheDenverChannel since its launch.
Kim was born in Vietnam and immigrated to the United
States when she was 6 years old. She grew up as the
youngest of nine kids in San Jose, Calif., and is a graduate
of UCLA, where she received a bachelor’s degree in English.
Her awards include: Colorado Associated Press Best Web
Site 2008, Colorado Broadcasters’ Association Best Web Site
2003, Associated Press Television and Radio Association Best
News Site 1999 (Channel2000).
ager for Prudential, Joneil M.
Custodio supports Prudential’s
executive leaders on the West
Coast building relationships
and strategic partnerships with
diverse community-based and
professional organizations. Those
“leader to leader” partnerships
serve to support the community
organization in the fulfillment of their mission while aiding
Prudential to identify and recruit talented individuals who
may be suited for building a successful practice in financial
services.
Prior to joining Prudential in March of 2007, Custodio
served three years as the IT Director for the RevereGroup.
Dedicating 12 years in the software development, project
leadership and strategic management consulting practice,
Custodio has successfully served Fortune 500 companies
in various industries including manufacturing, airline, high-
tech, telecommunications, energy, and government.
Custodio served as the 2007 National Marketing Director for
the National Association of Asian American Professionals.

Asian Avenue magazine 29

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 SPECIAL EDITION

喜相逢 大酒樓
The Empress Seafood John ASIAN BISTRO
Dim Sum Restaurant Best Roast Duck In Town

2008 Top 10 Chinese Restaurant, Chinese Restaurant News

USA Today 2009, 10 Great Places to Welcome Prosperity
“Best of City Search 2006”
- America’s #1 Online Dining Guide
“Top of the Rockies”
- 2005-2006 Rocky Mountain News

“Top family restaurant”

- Rocky Mountain News
“Top Chinese Restaurant”
- Rocky Mountain News Dining Guide
“Best Dim Sum”
- Westword
“Best Restaurant in Town”
- 5280 Magazine
“City’s Best Chinese Food”
- AOL City Guide Prix Fixe Menu
“Going Global in Denver” Minimum two people, $35 per person
- Sunset Magazine

Specializing styles in Dim Sum, Cantonese, & Szechuan Five Gourmet Course Including
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Tel: 303.922.2822
Open Hours www.ufeedme.com/johnholly
Federal Blvd

W. Alameda Ave.
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Mon - Fri 11am - 9pm
9232 Park Meadows Drive.Lone Tree, CO 80124 • Tel: 303.768.9088
2825 W. Alameda Ave., Denver, CO 80219 2223 W. Wildcat Reserve Pkwy. Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 • Tel: 303.683.5558

30 June 2009

MissAACO_Program.indd 7 5/21/09 10:09:14 PM


2009 JUDGES
Hank Eng is originally from New York
where he attended Rensselaer Polytechnic
Institue, receiving a degree in Management
Engineering. Shortly after graduation, he was
invited to join the Peace Corps as a volunteer
and worked in Kenya as a water development
officer. Upon completion of a tour of duty,
Hank joined the US Agency for International
Development as a Project Engineer and
continued working in East Africa for a total of 11
years in drought relief and village development.
Following Africa, Hank began a career in
aerospace, which over a 20+ year period took him to many cross-
roads in history. He has lived in Pakistan during a military dictatorship,
in China during Tiannamen, and in the Soviet Union at the fall of
Communism. Hank lived in Beijing, China for 6-years before returning
to the US in 2000. Hank’s public service includes performing search
and rescue missions as a member of Civil Air Patrol, an auxilairy of the
US Air Force. He also serves as a director on the boards of the South
Metro Fire Rescue Authority and the South Metro Safety Foundation.
As a licensed commerical pilot and flight instructor, Hank enjoys taking
aviation-minded youth on their first flights as part of the Young Eagles
Program. In 2008, Hank ran for US Congress in Colorado’s 6th District.
Hank is married and together with wife Lindsay and daughter Kendall
live in unincorporated Arapahoe County.
Pam Sweetser , and her husband
Dan are the adoptive parents of two children;
Lacey who was born in Korea in 1986 and Sam
who was born in India in 1989. Her children
catapulted Pam into life and career interests
she never imagined. She is the founder and
Executive Director of Colorado Heritage
Camps, Inc., a non-profit organization that
runs 10 annual heritage camps for adoptive
families with children of many different
backgrounds, including African/Caribbean,
Cambodian, Chinese (two camps), Indian /Nepalese, Filipino, Korean,
Latin American, Russian, and Vietnamese. These camps draw over
4,000 participants each summer from all across the United States and
internationally. The camps are designed to foster a positive self image
through cultural identity in adopted children, and a keen understanding
of the child’s birth culture for the entire family. The connection with
the cultural communities in Colorado is what has made these camps
the success they are. This “labor of love” has truly become a life’s
work for Pam, one that never would have happened without her own
wonderful children.
DR. RANEE SHENOI has many roles in
life. She celebrates married life with her husband
of almost 18 years, Dr. Norse Bear. She is actively
involved with her two children, Christina (11) and
Eric (9). She came to the United States at a young
age of 12 from India. She realized the amazing
opportunities for education in America and
became a Chemical Engineer. Fascinated by the
workings of the human body, she then attended
medical school and became a physician. She
specializes in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
and has a solo private practice in Lakewood. Dr.
Shenoi believes all women can achieve no matter where they come
from. More importantly, she believes that women are great at multi-
tasking and can successfully wear different hats in their personal and
professional lives Dr. Shenoi was proud to represent Mrs. Colorado
United States in 2008. She is involved with the American Diabetes
Association in their Advocacy Committee. She is a philanthropic
member of the Women’s Foundation of Colorado which empowers
women and girls to achieve economic self-sufficiency. Her goal is to
work toward Prevention and Wellness as part of health care reform in
our country. Dr. Shenoi is truly honored and humbled to meet such an
amazing group of articulate, talented, and passionate Asian American
women.
MissAACO_Program.indd 8
Miss Asian American Colorado
Dr. Linda Huang , originally from
Ohio, is a summa cum laude graduate of Yale
College. National Merit Scholar, Phi Beta Kappa,
yadda yadda yadda. She went to Stanford
Medical School and after medical school Dr.
Huang returned to the east coast, married her
college sweetheart, and did her first residency
at Georgetown University. She also completed
a Microsurgery and Hand Fellowship in Louisville.
Dr. Huang has been in private practice in Denver
since January 1988. She is board-certified in
plastic and reconstructive surgery by the American Board of Plastic
Surgery—the one that matters. She has been honored in the annual
poll of area doctors by 5280 Magazine, as a TOP DOC for 1994-2006.
She has appeared on TV (Channels 4, 7, 9 and Fox), and written a few
articles here and there. She gained fame (or notoriety) for supporting
women in the breast implant debates. But most importantly she has
had the best time working with many, many people, helping them
reach their goals. Linda Huang lives in Denver with her husband, three
children, a dog and a parrot.
Dennis Kaw is a trial attorney who
represents businesses, corporations and individuals
involved in complex commercial disputes. Mr.
Kaw has a diverse experience, which includes six
years of practice as a prosecutor with the United
States Air Force, Judge Advocate General (JAG)
Department. During this time, Mr. Kaw was the
trial attorney in over 80 trials including over 30
jury trials. In 2004, Mr. Kaw transferred his trial skills
to private practice and has been practicing
in Denver ever since. Most recently, Mr. Kaw successfully obtained a
$5.2 million judgment in a corporate dispute. Mr. Kaw is a well-known
member in the local legal community. Mr. Kaw is also very active in
the CBA mock trial program for high school students and is an active
leader in the Colorado Asian community. Kaw is the President, Asian
Pacific American Bar Association, Board of Governors, Colorado Bar
Association and Board Member, CBA Mock Trial Committee.
The brains behind Fashion Denver is
Brandi Shigley , a local entre-
preneur who started in the world of design
herself. Working to build her successful line of
handbags, B.Shigley Designs, Brandi learned
a great deal about not only the creative end
of design, but also marketing, promotion, and
the tools for building a business. Sharing this
information with others, Brandi hopes to help
other dreamers achieve their own success.
“Do what you love. Love what you do,” is not
only a message she gives to others, but words
she lives by herself.
As the Director of Marketing for Red Book
Solutions, Jennifer Samuel has
a coveted edge on marketing through
creativity, best practices, project ma-
nagement and process. She enjoys delving
into neuromarketing/neuroscience to
mastermind and maintain a cohesive
corporate image. Her day to day domain
knowledge inmarketing communications are
to manage marketing campaigns and stay
currentin the hospitality industries. Jennifer
has an entrepreneurial spirit and is co-owner
and Managing Director of Bodies By Perseverance, a personal training
fitness center and studio, with her husband, Courtney Samuel. Her
professional passions are marketing, fitness, and teaching. Jennifer
enjoys working with the community and works with the local and
national Asian and Filipino communities mentoring youth programs,
performing cultural and contemporary dance. In addition, she was a
former Denver Bronco Cheerleader (2000-2003) and won the Defensive
Line Award for her leadership and performance on and off the field.
Asian Avenue magazine 31
5/21/09 10:09:38 PM
 SPECIAL EDITION

#1 Miss Giane Morris #4

Miss Abhinetri
Ramaswami
Colorado Technical University University of Denver
Filipino American Indian American
Age: 21 Age: 19
Best described as patient, goofy Best described as determined,
and creative tolerant, empathetic

• Logo Design Contest Winner for Linkin Park Underground 8 (Winner of • Advocacy Chairperson, the Up Til Dawn Executive Board at DU
500 contestants) • Co-President, Amnesty International Chapter at DU
• Creative Intern for EMI Music in NY • Secretary, DU HIV/AIDS Awareness Committee
• New York University Spring Program (Scholarship Recipient) • Valedictorian, Smoky Hill High School Class of 2007

Talent: Singing self-written song entitled “Brother”
Passion for Service: Create a musical theater production to fundraise
money for Gawad Kalinga, an organization that builds villages in
poverty stricken areas of the Phillippines, Indonesia, Cambodia and
other countries
Sponsored by: Filipino American Community of Southern Colorado.
Talent: Carnatic singing (South Indian classical vocal) of “Mahaganapathim”
composed by Muthuswami Dikshitar; Accompanied by Dr. John Thomas on
the tabla
Passion for Service: Implement a project to target cancer awareness in an
effort to help the children suffering around the world
Sponsored by: Alpine Travel and Tours- Eby Johnson, Ferooza Eswaran, Nandini
Sriram, Lux Rajan, Nurith Sweetwood, and Coldwell Banker - Shohini Ghosh.

#2 Miss Nguyen Nguyen #5 Miss Kalia Lee

Colorado College University of Colorado (Denver)
Vietnamese American Hmong American
Age: 19 Age: 19
Best described as energetic, Best described as passionate,
outspoken and dedicated inspiring, and friendly

• Co-President, Asian American Student Union • Hmong National Development – Volunteer at blood drives and
• Research, Upward Bound Math & Science/Frontiers of Science hospitals, pass our surveys, road clean-up
• The Tanzania Project – Raise money for trip to Tanzania • Government, Hmong Student Association of Colorado
• Teaching the Test of English as a Foreign Strategies in Vietnam • National Honor Society

Talent: Spoken Word Performance entitled “Beautiful Things”
Passion for Service: Raise money for research and support
of Americans with HIV/AIDS and hold fundraising events for
Tanzanians (she met during the Tanzania Project trip) through a 5K
marathon or benefit dinner
Talent: Singing “A Moment Like This” by Kelly Clarkson
Passion for Service: Educate the Hmong communities about
health issues, the most common illnesses and preventative
treatments through workshops

#3 Miss Nomuun Enkhbat

University of Colorado (Denver)
#6 Miss Jennifer Nguyen
University of Denver
Mongolian American Chinese American
Age: 18 Age: 22
Best described as fun, organized and Best described as spontaneous,
determined empathetic, and dedicated

• Board Member, Youth Program and Special Events for Mongolian
Community Association of Colorado
• Intern, University of Colorado Nursing School
• Treasurer, Mongolian Student Club
• Mongolian Youth Leaders
Talent: Waltz - Ballroom Dancing
Passion for Service: Assist the Mongolian Youth Leaders organization
to improve the performance of Mongolian middle and high school
students, both academically and personally
Sponsored by President’s Fund for Student Diversity.
• Intern, Gateway Battered Women’s Services
• Resident Assistant at DU and National Residence Hall Honorary
President’s Award
• Intern, DU Office of First & Second Year Experience
• Vice President and Founder, Club Curling
• Dean of Junior Counselors, Colorado Columbine Girls State
Talent: Curling (Sport)
Passion for Service: Visit Colorado high schools to educate teens about
domestic violence, teen dating violence, sexual education, healthy
relationships etc. and to assist victims in shelters and safehouses
Sponsored by Coal Mine Dragon Restaurant.

32 June 2009

MissAACO_Program.indd 9 5/21/09 10:09:56 PM

 Miss Asian American Colorado

#7 Miss Laila Nguyen

University of Colorado (Denver)
#10 Miss Pakou Xiong
University of Colorado (Boulder) Alumna
Vietnamese American Hmong American
Age: 20 Age: 24
Best described as driven, extrovert, Best described as compassionate, caring, nice
conscientiousness • Program Coordinator, Asian Pacific Development Center
• Programs Committee, National Association of Asian
American Professionals
• Facilitator, Hmong Colorado Radio, Hmong Student
Association of Colorado and Hmong National Development
• Daniel’s Fund Scholar
• Graduate of Cosmotology School Talent: Floral Decoration and Instruction
• Sigma Psi Zeta – Multicultural Asian Sorority Passion for Service: Raise awareness and education on cancer, cancer
• No “Mo” violence Cultural Dance Group detection, prevention and other health-related resources to Asian Americans
by providing appropriate resources in specific languages
Talent: Hip Hip Break-Dancing Performance
Sponsored by: Hmong Student Association of Colorado, Hmong Colorado Radio, Woody’s
Passion for Service: Represent women in the hip hop and breakdancing
Wings & Things Gourmet Restaurant, Ja Thao Xiong & Family, Rose & Dustin Segawa, Greg
community to break traditional stereotypes by organizing dance & Pa Lee, Jessie Rula & Israel Cruz Pacheco Nava, Mark Chung, Perry Lin, Mai Kou Vang,
competitions and events Kaying Lor, Linda Ngo, Weng Si Au Yeung

Sponsored by: Dance Trax Entertainment, Inc.

#8 Miss Wendy Vue

Arvada High School
#11 Miss Dana Seaman
University of Colorado (Denver)
Hmong American
Vietnamese American
Age: 18
Age: 19
Best described as athletic, humble,
Best described as respectable,
and unique
courageous, bold

• Recipient of Hmong Students Association of CO Scholarship

• Nhu Lai Temple GDPT
• DECA President
• UCD Maps Volunteer
• Girl’s Varsity Volleyball Captain
• Denver Rescue Mission Volunteer
• Cherry Creek Diversity Conference
• Women’s Leadership Conference: Winning Strategies for Success
• Youth Strengthening Youth Program Junior Counselor
Volunteer
• Intern at Crystal Inn Hotel and Suites
Talent: Spoken Word Performance
Talent: Cooking
Passion for Service: Develop a philanthropic campaign focused on
Passion for Service: Spread health education, specifically cancer
women’s inner beauty and working “to abolish the distorted social
awareness, in Hmong communities as well as the Colorado community
construct of beauty open to all ethnic communities in an effort to raise
as a whole to encourage preventative care
the self-esteem and confidence of women
Sponsored by: Nikki Ngan Nguyen and Vue Family Association

#9 Miss Stephanie Yoon

University of Colorado (Boulder)
#12
Regis University
Miss Erika Tanaka
Korean American Japanese-Vietnamese American
Age: 19 Age: 20
Best described as ambitious, Best described compassionate,
forward, grateful dedicated, optimistic

• Event Coordinator and incoming President of Asian Unity

• Sigma Psi Zeta – Multicultural Asian Sorority
• Multicultural Greek Coordinator
• Korean American Students of Boulder
• Representative-at-large for CU student government
Talent: Hip Hop Dance Routine
Passion for Service: Get more involved in Sigma Psi Zeta and the CU-
Boulder campus to empower other women to be leaders
Sponsored by:
• Regis University Full Tuition Natural Science Scholarship
• President, Alpha Epsilon Delta (Pre-Health Honor Society)
• Thailand/Vietnamese Servie Immersion Trip
• Marai Daiko, Japanese Drum Performance Group
• Green Belt, Aikido (Japanese Martial Art)
Talent: Taiko Drum Performance
Passion for Service: Bring the issue of teen suicide prevention to the forefront
of the Asian American community by organizing a fundraiser to benefit
the Second Wind Fund that showcases the talents of the Asian American
community and provides education about the importance of mental health
and suicide prevention

Asian Avenue magazine 33

MissAACO_Program.indd 10 5/21/09 10:10:10 PM

 SPECIAL EDITION

#13 Miss Lana Nguyen

University of Denver
#16
University of Denver
Miss Jessica Choe
Vietnamese American Korean American
Age: 20 Age: 19
Best described as responsible, Best described persistent,
motivated, committed unforgettable, ambitious

• Gates Millennium Scholar • Community Leadership Corps, Volunteer on Health Care Team
• Member, Asian Student Alliance • Treasurer, Venom Vixen Dance Team
• Member, Vietnamese Student Association • Mentor, Girls Incorporated
• Executive Internship and Volunteer at Exempla Lutheran Hospital • Assistant Facilitator, Hugh O’Brian Youth Staff for leadership activities
and seminar
Talent: Singing “hat cho nguoi o lai”
Passion for Service: Implement a project towards providing free Talent: Dance Mix Performance
healthcare to lower-class communities, working specifically with Passion for Service: Implement a project to serve the homeless
children people in Denver and to raise awareness by hosting events such as
coin collections and opportunities for community members to meet
homeless people, especially youth, living in shelters

#14 Miss Christine Thai

University of Colorado (Boulder)
#17 Miss Iris Bulalayao
University of Colorado (Colorado Springs)
Chinese American Filipino American
Age: 20 Age: 21
Best described as motivated, caring, Best described faithful, available,
and passionate teachable

• University of Colorado Student Union Tri-Executive (Student Body
President)
• Co-President, Next Generation Voices
• Co-Founder, Vice President of Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority
• Co-Founder, Co-President of Association of Pre-Legal Professionals
• Founder of Heart of Gold Foundation
Talent: Gu Zheng (Chinese Instrument) Performance of “The Golden
Mountain of Beijing”
Passion for Service: Establish a mentorship program for
young adult Asian American women to pair up with Asian
American female students in middle and high school
• Chair, Asian Pacific Student Union
• Team Captain, Relay for Life
• Reach Your Peak Scholarship
• Created the Benefit Concert for Cancer
• Denver Foundation Scholarship recipient
Talent: Singing “Beautiful Disaster” by Kelly Clarkson
Passion for Service: Create a program to visit different schools in
Colorado, urging students to get involved in student groups on campus
Sponsored by: Tess Loo, Owner of Lulu, a chic women’s fashion store in
Colorado Springs

#15

Miss Katleen
Mara Luistro
Regis University
Filipino American
Age: 19
Best described as determined,
spontaneous, and innovative

• Board of Trustees Scholarship

• Ambassador’s Program at Regis University
• PASCO Outstanding Award 2008
• Varsity Volleyball and DECA in high school
• Volunteer Sayaw Philipinas Program (Dancing)

Talent: Spoken Word Performance

Passion for Service: Donate half the monetary prize to Gawad Kalinga for
their Colorado Youth Village project in the Philippines and talk to youth
about the issues of poverty on the other side of the world

Sponsored by: Philippine American Society of Colorado.

34 June 2009

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 Miss Asian American Colorado

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Asian Avenue magazine 35

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 SPECIAL EDITION

2009 Miss Asian American Colorado Committee

Director: Annie Guo Chair: Kenneth Quan Phi
Communications Director: Chun Guo Candidate Liaison: Victor Nguyen
Programming Coordinator: Tuyen (Trisa) Bui Programming Director: Christina Dai
Logistics Coordinator: Francesca Becerra Little/Big Sister Coordinator: Kathleen Asuncion
Art Director: Alex Phi Webmaster: Joey Teng
Technical and Program Director: Chwen-Geng Guo Photographers: Dan Phi, Trang Luong, Ashton Do,
Videographers: Joshua Weber, Jake Wilson, Somxai Vue Joe Nguyen, Mitch Dao

Big Sisters (2008 Participants): Tuyen (Trisa) Bui, Christina Dai, Francesca Becerra, Duacee Lor, Trang Luong, Anh Thu Nguyen,
Katleen Asuncion, Sonia Ho, Linda Nguyen, Atchara Phanpaktra, Midori Tran, Angela Chung
Special thanks to: Carol Ross for the Networking Workshop and Joel Rivera, Denver Wing Chun for the Self-Defense Class

2008-09 Miss Asian American Colorado - Miss Duacee Lor

Service Project Focus: Domestic Violence Awareness and Education
Duacee created the “Women For Women” program that consisted of:
(1) Creation of an educational brochure to share with young women and the Asian American community
(2) Organization of a self-defense class at Denver Wing Chun & Integrative Arts for the 2009 candidates
(3) Donation of more than 30 gift baskets filled with necessity items, toys, gifts, and toiletries for women and children at the
Safehouse Denver

1 2 3

Service Projects 2009 Timeline of Events

The women were divided into four groups and required to organize Sunday, April 5 First Meeting and Photo Shoot
their own small group service project:
Blue Team Cooked a meal for the Ronald McDonald House in Denver
Pink Team Faciliated a Bonfils Bone Marrow Drive (with NAAAP Saturday, April 11 RISE Asian American Leadership
Colorado) and decorated bags for Project Angel Heart in Denver Conference at Magnolia Hotel
Purple Team – Donate and decorate blankets for TESSA (organization
against sexual violence) in Colorado Springs Saturday, April 18 Networking Naturally Workshop By Carol
Yellow Team – Served food at Denver Rescue Mission in downtown
Denver Ross and Associates, LLC. Coaching and
Consulting Firm

Saturday, April 25 Service Learning 1: Safehouse Denver

Sunday, April 26 Service Learning 2: APDC’s 9Health Fair

Saturday, May 2 Self-Defense Class at Denver Wing Chun

Friday, May 8 Sleepover: Public Speaking Pointers, Resume

Building, Mock Interviews

Pink Team Saturday, May 14 Networking and Public Speaking: Joy of

Living Dinner and a Movie

Saturday, May 16 Service Learning 3: Habitat for Humanity:

Wheatridge and Denver

Sunday, May 17 BBQ Meet and Greet at Clement Park

Saturday, May 23 Preliminary Interviews

Friday, May 29 VIP Dinner

Saturday, May 30 Miss Asian American Colorado Finale Event

Purple Team
36 June 2009

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 Miss Asian American Colorado

2009 Sponsors
SILVER SPONSORS BRONZE SPONSORS
Empress Seafood Restaurant Iwayama Sushi
2825 W. Alameda Ave. • Denver, CO 80219 5500 S. Simms St. #C • Littleton, CO 80127
303.922.2822 • www.empressseafoodrestaurant.com 303.948.1199 www.iwayamasushi.com

Colorado Asian Health and Promotion

6795 E. Tennessee Ave. #427 • Denver, CO 80224
303.300.5263 • www.cahep.org
Golden Scoop Restaurant
536 Malley Dr. • Northglenn, CO 80233
303.457.1138
Wasabi Sushi
433 S. Teller St. • Denver, CO 80226
303.935.8888 • www.wasabidenver.com
Pacific Ocean Supermarket
6600 W 120th Ave #A • Broomfield, CO 80020
303.410.8168
Chopsticks China Bistro
2990 W. Mississippi Ave. • Denver, CO 80219
303.936.1506
Denver Wing Chun and Integrative Arts
1073 S. Pearl St. • Denver, CO 80209
720.298.6457 www.denverwingchun.com
Seoul Korean B.B.Q. Restaurant
2080 S. Havana St. • Aurora, CO 80014
303.632.7576

Sonoda’s Sushi (4 locations) Hmong Students Association of Colorado

1620 Market St. • Denver, CO 80202 hmongstudent@gmail.com •
303.595.9500 • www.sonodassushi.com www.hmongstudent.org

Coal Mine Dragon Restaurant

29017 Upper Bear Creek Dr. • Evergreen, CO 80439 Home Real Estate Realtor, Julie Xiong
303.670.1341 1400 W. 122nd Ave. Suite #140 • Westminster, CO 80234
303.854.8100 • Julie_Xiong@hotmail.com
Reef N Pond
2645 S. Santa Fe Dr. #D • Denver, CO 80223
720.570.7889 • www.reefnpond.net Filipino-American Community of
Southern Colorado
L’Asie Fusion Bistro admin@filamsocolo.com • www.filamso.com
603 E 6th Ave • Denver, CO 80203
303.318.0102
Pho 79
Saigon Bowl 1080 S. Havana St. • Aurora, CO 80012
333 S. Federal #134 • Denver, CO 80219 303.344.0752
303.935.2427

Pacific Mercantile Panda Buffet

1925 Lawrence St. • Denver, CO 80202 5050 S. Federal Blvd. • Englewood, CO 80110
303.295.0293 • www.pacificmercantile.com 303.703.6868 • www.pandabuffetonline.com

China Jade Truong An Gifts

12203 E. Iliff Ave. #D • Aurora, CO 80014 333 S. Federal Blvd. #116
303.755.8518 Denver, CO 80219
303.936.5004 •
Lollicup www.truongangifts.com
1589 S Colorado Blvd. • Denver, CO 80222
303.504.6022 • www.lollicupdenver.com Pho 95
1002 S Federal Blvd • Denver, CO 80219
Ling and Louie’s (2 locations) 303.936.3322
1201 16th St. • Denver, CO 80202
303.623.5464 • www.lingandlouies.com Mile High Cartridges
8923 Washington St. • Thornton,
John Holly’s Asian Bistro (2 locations) CO 80229 • 303.288.2901 •
2422 S. Downing St. • Denver, CO 80210 www.milehighcartridges.com
303.722.8686 • www.ufeedme.com/johnholly

Little Grass Shack Alex Phi Designs, Graphic Designer

910 Santa Fe Dr. #3 • Denver, CO 80204 alex.t.phi@gmail.com • www.alexphi.com
720.974.4090 • www.spreadingaloha.com

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