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Mom&i Reporter
Edited by Mom&i Editorial Team
Renowned as a 'powerful' attorney in New York and New Jersey, Andrew Park is celebrated not only for his formidable legal acumen but also for his continuous philanthropic efforts. His earnest contributions have been lighting up the Korean community in New York and New Jersey, and his message of hope is shared through Mom&i.
Awarded the 'Proud Korean of 2016' by the Parliamentary Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee, Andrew Park's establishment of the Seol Chang Andrew Park Scholarship Foundation in 2013 to nurture future generations in the immigrant community was notably recognized. Park remarked, "I did not start my work with the intention of receiving awards, yet I've been honored several times by various political and economic organizations within the Korean American community." He expressed gratitude for the special recognition received directly from Korea, acknowledging the significance of the award as a gift from the people of Korea.
"'Seol Chang' is my pen name. I was born in Sokcho, Gangwon-do, and my great-grandfather gave me this name, meaning 'to work diligently under the spirit of Seoraksan and the East Sea.' Although I'm not entirely familiar with Korean culture, having a pen name feels meaningful. Naming the scholarship foundation after it adds even more significance. We have granted $3,000 scholarships to eight students annually for five years, totaling over $100,000."
Park's foundation also grants scholarships to Chinese students. He explained, "In a diverse country like America, sharing within the Korean community is important, but so is opening doors to other communities. Expanding the scope of our awards may invite them to take an interest in Korean society as well. This belief led us to extend scholarships to Chinese individuals."
Despite economic challenges, Park has donated over $300,000 to various causes including seniors' associations, scholarships, and cultural events. He reflected, "Although I did not become a lawyer with the intention to give, encountering people in need naturally led me to help. My past scholarship was a life-changing turning point, and I felt it was a debt to repay."
Park plans to extend his scholarship initiatives to students in Korea, aiming to surprise them with support from a Korean-American. He believes this gesture could culminate in a more profound cycle of giving.
Park is set to become an adjunct professor at Kangwon National University and contribute to nurturing future legal minds in Korea. He excitedly remarked, "It's thrilling to envision overseas internships with the law school there and to serve Chuncheon, my birthplace, as a legal advisor."
With 20 years of experience as a personal injury lawyer and a team of 30 lawyers, Park humbly expressed, "What began as a solo endeavor has grown immensely. Despite increased responsibilities, the scholarship foundation and giving back to the community renew my passion. I look forward to continuing our journey of sharing and seeing you all at future gatherings."
For further details on the Seol Chang Andrew Park Scholarship Foundation, please refer to this [link].
