Where did you grow up? Go to school?
I was born in Seoul, Korea and immigrated to the United States with my family when I was five years old. We came to Columbia where I learned to speak English, eat pizza at Barry’s in the Mall and graduated from Atholton HS. I received my undergraduate and law degree from the University of Maryland-College Park and U. of Baltimore.
What did/do you do in your “day job?”
I am a real estate attorney with a practice based in Howard County. When I’m being Walter Mitty, I dream of being a thoroughbred horse breeder. Don’t ask me why.
Why did you want to be on the CFHoCo Board of Trustees?
I was originally on the Board in the early 2000’s. I asked for a second opportunity to be on the Board again because I want to ensure that the Foundation is able to continue to meet the needs of our changing community. Howard County needs a Foundation and it is essential that our Foundation is able to meet its challenges into the future.
When did you start giving to issues that are important to you?
Growing up in a Howard County in the 1970’s and 80’s, the community’s culture was very much focused on building commerce and helping one another to create the very best place to live and raise a family. There was so little here. Everyone needed help whether it was a hand out to help someone in need or a hand up for someone to help them make their own way. Giving as opposed to taking is how we make our mark on the world. If in the end, we all leave this life with more than we took, the world would be a much better place.
What are 2-3 areas of interest or non-profits that you give to?
I enjoy supporting causes that help to support the family unit and children to live better lives. Challenges complicated by poverty including housing, domestic violence and youth support groups often struggle for funding. We try to support non-profits that may struggle a little more to attract funding.
What advice do you have for those interested in giving back?
Get involved. Understand that there are many people who look to find their place in this world and give back. If you have the desire, you need to be with like-minded people who find purpose in expressing their humanity. Of all the things I do, the missions of the non-profit, charitable organizations in this community are by far the most challenging.