Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month with Morningstar’s APIA
May 07, 2026

On May 7, 2026, Morningstar Inc.’s Asian Pacific Islander Alliance (APIA) hosted a special event in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, highlighting the rich cultural heritage and historical significance of ancient jade and the Silk Road.

The event featured two engaging presentations: Jun Wan, a consultant and scholar at the Art Institute of Chicago, introduced “Well-known Ancient Chinese Jade Collections in Museums and Auctions,” exploring the cultural significance, artistic value, and appreciation of jade. Leigh Wang, a board member of the Asian Culture Association (ACA), presented “Key Events and Timeline of the Silk Road,” sharing the history of this remarkable network of trade routes and its role in connecting civilizations, cultures, Chinese dynasties, and ideas across continents—stretching from the conquests of Alexander the Great to the Age of Discovery.

Roughly 30 Morningstar employees attended the event in person, with additional team members joining virtually from Europe, demonstrating enthusiastic interest and warm engagement throughout. Their thoughtful responses reflected a shared appreciation for the enduring legacy of Asian cultures and the historical connections fostered by the Silk Road.

Prior to this presentation, APIA selected ACA as their supporting nonprofit organization during the Morningstar Chicago ERG Silence Auction, directing all proceeds to ACA. Through these events, ACA has received $2,800 in donations to support ACA’s 6th annual Book Drive program.

ACA sincerely appreciates Morningstar’s APIA for organizing this meaningful event and thanks Morningstar Inc. and its employees for their generosity and continued support. This collaboration beautifully demonstrates how cultural exchange and corporate community engagement can work hand-in-hand to support local communities and preserve cultural heritage.