The Austin Chen Tsai Foundation & Berkeley Changemakers®

A Lasting Legacy: How the Austin Chen Tsai Foundation is Empowering Young “Austins” at UC Berkeley

At UC Berkeley, the spirit of innovation and the drive for social change are integral to the university’s mission. For the students who attend this renowned institution, the opportunity to pursue their passions and make a meaningful impact on the world is part of the very essence of their education. While Austin attended UC Berkeley, his entrepreneurial spirit and innovation added to the spirit of the school and drives our mission everyday. Which is why it only made sense to choose the Berkeley Changemakers® as the program we wanted to have as our Inaugural Partner. 

Last fall we raised over $25,000 to donate to Berkeley Changemakers. Programs like these are integral to our mission and play a pivotal role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Thanks to the generous support of individuals and families who attended our Inaugural Event in November, we can help empower students like Austin as they strive to become leaders in their respective fields. 

In a recent heartfelt letter to Mr. and Mrs. Tsai, he expressed his deep gratitude for the Foundation’s support for Berkeley Changemaker. The contribution honors the memory of Austin Tsai, whose legacy can inspire students in the program and help them become innovators and leaders of their own.

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Tsai:

 I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your generous support of the Berkeley Changemaker Fund. My colleagues tell me that your generosity honors the spirit of innovation, leadership, and dedication to public service that defined your late son. We are so honored to partner with you in ensuring that his memory lives on in this course led by Laura Hassner. 

Such thoughtfulness is vital to the Changemaker Program, empowering students to launch change-driven startups, shape the future of their chosen fields, and drive informed solutions for a better world. I draw a great deal of inspiration from your partnership to build a framework that equips students across several disciplines with the skills to lead with purpose, especially as it honors the lasting legacy your son will have on this campus. Your investment ensures that this transformative initiative continues to grow, providing more students with the tools and confidence to make a difference. Thank you again for your part in it all — I am truly grateful. 

Sincerely,

Rich Lyons

Looking Ahead

We are proud to support Berkeley Changemakers and thrilled to see how this initiative continues to grow. Their belief in the power of education, leadership, and innovation is shaping the future of UC Berkeley, and with your support we can continue to inspire generations of students for years to come. We are so grateful to have received this heartfelt letter from Chancellor Rick Lyons and are committed to making a lasting impact through Berkeley Changemakers and other programs to come.