Get Ready for the RUCAA x Rice 24-Hour Challenge! Each year, Rice University holds the 24-Hour Challenge, a day-long fundraising push that rallies Owls from around the world — and RUCAA is once again proud to be part of it. For 24 hours straight, alumni, students, and friends will donate, share, and spread the word to support causes that matter. For RUCAA, this means fueling programs like student-alumni mentorships, cultural events, and scholarships for the next generation of Asian Owls. This year’s challenge will feature live updates, regional watch parties, and social media contests. Chapters in Houston, New York, and Seoul are already planning “challenge watch parties” with snacks, trivia, and giving games. It’s more than a fundraiser — it’s a global reunion. Every gift, no matter the size, contributes to the legacy we’re building together. Mark your calendars for March 20–21, 2026. Together, we can make an impact in just 24 hours.
Meet the New RUCAA Board Members
Introducing RUCAA’s 2025–2026 Leadership Team RUCAA is proud to announce its new board members for the 2025–2026 term — a passionate group of alumni ready to steer the community into its next chapter. ✨ Andrew Lin (BA Computer Science, Economics, 2002) continues as President, bringing strategic vision and a tech-forward mindset. ✨ Rushi Bhalani steps in as President-Elect, focusing on alumni outreach and new initiatives. ✨ Tania Min (BA, BArch Architecture, 1990/1992) continues as VP of Outreach and Communications, amplifying RUCAA’s voice and story. ✨ Cindy Dinh and Florence Tang share the VP of Community Relations & Development role, strengthening ties between alumni and the university. Other roles, like Treasurer and VP of Student Affairs, are currently open, inviting fresh alumni to step up. Together, this board is dedicated to building bridges between alumni, students, and the wider Rice community.
Houston Networking Mixer Highlights
Houston RUCAA Mixer Brings Alumni Together for Summer Connections On August 15, the Houston RUCAA chapter hosted a vibrant summer mixer at a popular Midtown venue, drawing alumni from graduation years spanning the 1980s to 2024. The event featured a casual atmosphere — alumni mingled over light bites and drinks, with music provided by DJ OwlMix (a Rice alum!). Icebreaker games and an “Owl Bingo” card helped new faces connect instantly. President Andrew Lin shared a few words about RUCAA’s growing footprint, emphasizing how events like these keep the spirit of Rice alive. Several attendees even signed up on the spot to become chapter volunteers. This mixer wasn’t just about reminiscing — many attendees swapped business cards and LinkedIn profiles, creating fresh opportunities for collaboration and mentorship. By the night’s end, what started as a casual gathering turned into a springboard for future events and partnerships.
RUCAA Lunar New Year Recap
RUCAA Lunar New Year Celebration Brings Together Alumni Across the Globe This year’s RUCAA Lunar New Year celebration was nothing short of spectacular. Alumni, students, and friends from across the U.S. and Asia joined together for a hybrid event that bridged time zones and cultures. The evening kicked off with a traditional lion dance performance streamed live from Houston, followed by regional chapters hosting their own watch parties and meet-ups. In New York, alumni gathered at a local tea house for dim sum and networking. In Seoul and Shanghai, smaller in-person dinners added a personal touch. Guest speakers included Rice faculty, alumni entrepreneurs, and cultural leaders who shared reflections on community, heritage, and the Year of the Dragon. A highlight was the “Memories of Lunar New Year” storytelling session, where alumni shared cherished traditions from their childhood. The event ended with a virtual toast, uniting all attendees on Zoom, proving once again that RUCAA’s reach and heart are truly global.