HONORING DR. TAI-HENG CHENG

On 2026-05-20, Representative Mark Takano (D-CA-39) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING DR. TAI-HENG CHENG" in the House.

HONORING DR. TAI-HENG CHENG

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 86 (Wednesday, May 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 86 (Wednesday, May 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E473-E474] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING DR. TAI-HENG CHENG ______ HON. MARK TAKANO of california in the house of representatives Wednesday, May 20, 2026 Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today during AANHPI Heritage Month to honor the contributions of Dr. Tai-Heng Cheng, specifically regarding his work with the National Museum of Asian Art. In 2022, a gift from Dr. Cheng and his husband, Cole Harrell, established the museum's first paid graduate internship program. Since its inception, twenty-two energetic students have been named Cheng-Harrell Graduate Interns and have worked on museum exhibitions, research, and public programs. These young people come from diverse backgrounds, each bringing a unique perspective [[Page E474]] not only to the National Museum of Asian Art, but also to other cultural institutions throughout their future careers. This pipeline of diverse, intelligent, and passionate talent in the museum and curatorial space is essential and will assuredly lead to collections that present a more complete history for all to enjoy and learn from. Dr. Cheng's contributions have helped ensure that AANHPI history is preserved, curated, and presented with humanity and dignity. During this AANHPI Heritage Month, I congratulate him, the National Museum of Asian Art, and all of the students who have benefited from this program. ____________________