Lynn Chen-Zhang Serves as Co-Chair of China Institute of America's Centennial Grand Fashion Gala

Historic New York celebration honors a century of cultural exchange and the global influence of Chinese fashion

PORTAGE, Mich., Sept. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Zhang Financial is proud to announce that CEO Lynn Chen-Zhang, CPA, PFS™, CFP®, served as a Co-Chair of the China Institute of America Centennial Grand Fashion Gala, held September 8, 2026, at The Pierre in New York City.

Celebrating the China Institute's 100th anniversary, the gala brought together prominent leaders in fashion, art, culture and philanthropy to recognize Chinese creativity and its growing influence around the world. The evening was chaired by renowned television personality, entrepreneur and cultural ambassador Yue-Sai Kan, with Lynn Chen-Zhang serving as Gala Co-Chair. Internationally acclaimed designers Guo Pei and Vera Wang participated as Gala Ambassadors.

Featured designers included Jason Wu, Vivienne Tam, Grace Chen and Laurence Xu, among others. The evening also honored Fern Mallis, widely recognized as the creator of New York Fashion Week, as well as other influential figures from the international fashion community.

"For one hundred years, the China Institute of America has served as an important bridge between cultures—advancing understanding, celebrating artistry and creating lasting connections," said Lynn Chen-Zhang. "It was a tremendous honor to help lead this historic celebration and to support an institution whose mission is especially meaningful at this moment in history."

In her welcome message to gala guests, Chen-Zhang reflected on fashion as a universal language that transcends national borders and allows individuals to express their heritage, identity and personal stories. She also emphasized that Chinese and American identities can be expressed in many different ways, united by creativity and mutual respect.

Zhang Financial supported the Centennial Grand Fashion Gala and congratulated the China Institute of America on this extraordinary milestone. 

"Lynn's leadership reflects the values we share at Zhang Financial: excellence, cultural understanding and service to the broader community," said Charles Zhang, Founder and President of Zhang Financial. "We are proud to support the China Institute as it begins its second century of building meaningful connections between the United States and China."

About the China Institute of America
Founded in 1926, the China Institute of America is one of the oldest educational and cultural organizations in the United States dedicated to advancing a deeper understanding of China through programs in culture, art, education and business.

About Zhang Financial
Zhang Financial is an independent, NAPFA-registered Fee-Only wealth management firm providing objective investment management and financial-planning services to individuals, families and institutions. Headquartered in Portage, Michigan, the firm also maintains offices in Chicago, Detroit, Grand Rapids and Naples.

Charles Zhang was ranked No. 1 in the nation on Barron's 2025 Top 100 Independent Advisors, the highest-ranked Fee-Only advisor on the list.
Released on 9/15/25, based on a 12-month period ending 6/30/25. Zhang Financial paid no fee to be considered for or included in the ranking. The firm pays Barron's a licensing fee to use the ranking and related logo. Please visit zhangfinancial.com/disclosure for full ranking criteria and methodology.

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