Asia Society Northern California


Asia Society Northern California is a nonprofit educational institution based in the San Francisco Bay Area in California, dedicated to promoting mutual understanding and strengthening partnerships among the peoples, leaders, and institutions of Asia and the United States.

History

Asia Society was founded in 1956 by John D. Rockefeller III as a nonpartisan, nonprofit institution to foster greater knowledge of Asia in the United States.
The Northern California Center was established in 1998, positioned on the Pacific Rim and at the entrance to Silicon Valley, to connect the San Francisco Bay Area’s diverse community with global leaders in policy, business, arts, culture, education, and technology.

Mission and Programs

ASNC's mission is to educate and engage the public on critical issues facing the United States, Asia, and the world. It delivers this mission through:
  • Public conferences and panel discussions on policy and international affairs.
  • Cultural programs including art exhibitions, film screenings, performances, and culinary events.
  • Executive roundtables and leadership briefings for business and government leaders.
  • Educational initiatives and internships for students and emerging professionals.

Leadership

Margaret Conley serves as executive director of the Asia Society Northern California and Seattle Centers. A Bay Area native, she expanded the center's geographic reach and previously worked as a television news correspondent with ABC News and Bloomberg Television; she holds degrees from Columbia University and the University of Hong Kong.

Board and Governance

ASNC is governed by an advisory board and Honorary Chairs who provide strategic guidance and support. Notable Honorary Chairs include Chong-Moon Lee and John S. Wadsworth Jr. The advisory board is chaired by Ambassador Scot Marciel.

Membership and Young Professionals

ASNC offers individual and corporate memberships, providing access to members-only events and benefits. The Young Professionals Group connects individuals aged 21–39 through programs tailored for emerging leaders, including networking events, receptions, and discounted access to ASNC activities.