#ACELing2026 ~ Celebrate the 2026 ACEL Impact Leader Awards Honorees

August 6, 2026

2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference

Shaping What's Next: Influence. Innovation. Impact.

August 13–14, 2026 | Omni Tempe Hotel | Tempe, Arizona


SCHEDULE | TOPICS | SPEAKERS | REGISTRATION

Digital Program Booklet


Inverted Apprenticeship: Lexical Bridges for the AI-Native Workforce through an Asian American Cultural Lens

Celebrate the 2026 ACEL Impact Leader Awards Honorees


2026 ACEL Impact Leader Awards

Leadership is measured not only by professional achievement, but by the positive impact we make in the lives of others and the communities we serve. Join us during the 2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference as we celebrate five exceptional leaders whose vision, service, and commitment to excellence have strengthened Arizona and beyond.

The 2026 ACEL Impact Leader Awards recognizes outstanding individuals whose accomplishments exemplify leadership, innovation, community engagement, and lasting impact. Guests will enjoy an elegant evening featuring a three-course dinner, inspiring stories, entertainment, and meaningful networking with business, civic, and community leaders.


This year's celebration will also feature an inspiring keynote address from Joy Park, Chief Client Officer at Everise, who will share insights on leadership, resilience, and leading with purpose.


Meet Our 2026 ACEL Impact Leader Awards Honorees

Hon. Roxanne Song Ong

ACEL Impact Leader Award for Legacy Leadership

Former Chief Presiding Judge, City of Phoenix

Hon. Roxanne Song Ong devoted more than four decades to Arizona's justice system, breaking barriers as Arizona's first Asian American woman attorney and first Asian American woman judge. Throughout her distinguished career, she has championed justice, mentorship, and public service while inspiring generations of legal and community leaders.


Hon. Jenny Ho-Vijungco

ACEL Impact Leader Award for Bridge-Building Leadership

Honorary Consul of the Philippines in Arizona

Jenny Ho-Vijungco has dedicated her career to strengthening relationships between business, government, and diverse communities. Through civic engagement, philanthropy, and international collaboration, she continues to build bridges that create opportunities and foster stronger communities.


Dr. Amish Shah

ACEL Impact Leader Award for Health & Public Service Leadership

Former Arizona State Representative | Physician

Dr. Amish Shah has devoted his career to improving lives through medicine and public service. As both a physician and former state legislator, he has championed healthcare access, public policy, and community well-being while demonstrating servant leadership throughout Arizona.


Adriana Kong Romero

ACEL Impact Leader Award for Economic Empowerment Leadership

Tucson Market President, Bank of America

Adriana Kong Romero has built a distinguished career advancing economic opportunity, financial empowerment, and community investment. Through her leadership in banking and nonprofit engagement, she continues creating pathways for businesses and individuals to succeed.


Harish K. Ankaraju

ACEL Impact Leader Award for Professional Excellence

Managing Director, Tax, EY

Harish K. Ankaraju is recognized for his exceptional leadership in tax strategy, global business, and professional excellence. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he is passionate about mentoring future leaders and advancing the growth of AAPI professionals through service and leadership.


Meet the Keynote Speaker

Joy Park

Chief Client Officer, Everise

Joy Park is a transformational executive leader with nearly three decades of experience leading customer experience, operations, and enterprise transformation across Fortune 30 companies and high-growth organizations. As Chief Client Officer at Everise, she partners with global clients to improve customer and patient experiences while driving innovation and operational excellence. A passionate advocate for mentorship and community engagement, Joy continues to support the Family Counseling Center of Greater Washington, advancing initiatives focused on mental wellness, youth mentorship, and multicultural communities.


Celebrating Leadership. Inspiring the Future.

The ACEL Impact Leader Awards celebrate individuals whose leadership extends far beyond their professional accomplishments. Through service, innovation, and a commitment to lifting others, these honorees exemplify the values that inspire stronger organizations and thriving communities.


Join us as we recognize extraordinary leaders whose impact continues to shape what's next.


Event Details

Friday, August 14, 2026

Omni Tempe Hotel at ASU

5:00 p.m. Registration & Reception

6:00 p.m. Awards Dinner

Business Professional or Semi-Formal Attire


2026 ACELing In Leadership Conference

Theme: Shaping What's Next: Influence. Innovation. Impact.


#ACELing2026 #ImpactLeaderAwards #ShapingWhatsNext #LeadershipExcellence #AAPILeadership #LeadershipAwards #ACELNational #InfluenceInnovationImpact

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