On Wednesday morning, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell made an announcement regarding the unfortunate passing of Angela Chao, the sister of his wife, Elaine Chao, in a recent car accident.
Elaine Chao, who previously held the position of the first Asian-American Secretary of Transportation under former President Donald Trump, expressed that her family fondly remembers Angela Chao as an exceptional individual – a brilliant woman, possessing charismatic qualities, and a visionary leader.
“It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that I announce the passing of my beloved youngest daughter, Angela Chao,” father James S.C. Chao said in a statement to the Daily Mail.
“Angela is a brilliant woman, a charismatic and visionary leader, and much-loved by all her sisters, our entire family, and friends. As a daughter, sister, mother, aunt, wife, and friend, she was unfailingly filial, thoughtful, kind, and devoted. These qualities were complemented by a spirited personality, exceptional intelligence, compassion for all, and a wonderful sense of humor. She kept us laughing and smiling. Losing her at such a young age is something we never even imagined, and our entire family is devastated with grief,” the family added in its statement.
“As a trailblazer for women in the executive suite, she inspired others to pursue their dreams. She also loved music and tried the French horn as her instrument when she was young, insisting on carrying it herself to every lesson. These early experiences created a lifelong, passionate commitment to the fine arts … Angela’s name in Chinese sounds like the characters for peace and prosperity. She certainly gave more than her share of both to this world. Her absence leaves a void not only in our hearts but in the Asian-American community,” the statement added.
Angela Chao’s relentless efforts and unwavering commitment enabled her to attain the American Dream. Emerging from a family of six siblings, she ascended to the position of CEO at Foremost Group, a prominent shipping company, in 2018. Angela played a pivotal role as a founding member of the Asian American Foundation (AAF).
The AAF dedicated its efforts towards delivering exceptional education to marginalized Asian American communities. Additionally, Angela held influential positions within esteemed organizations such as the American Bureau of Shipping Council, Harvard Business School’s Board of Dean’s Advisors, and the Metropolitan Opera.
“The Asian American Foundation is heartbroken to learn of the devastating death of Angela Chao, a beloved businesswoman, philanthropist, and respected leader,” the AAF said in a statement. “Angela has left an indelible mark on the Asian American Foundation and the AAPI community. A brilliant and committed leader, Angela’s warmth, kindness, and infectious energy will live on in our work for decades to come.”
Angela Chao, the CEO of the dry bulk shipping company Foremost Group and the sister of former Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao, has died in a car accident, according to the company and her family. https://t.co/1sRnL8Co2J
— NBC News (@NBCNews) February 14, 2024