As a girl born last into a traditional Chinese family in the 1960s -- when boys were valued over girls and birth order often decided a child’s future in the culture -- she learned about the concept of inequity. Cynthia's family moved to America when she was a year old, so she had access to education from kindergarten through college. The births of many girls like her, however, were viewed as burdens eliminated through adoption. Other girls who remained with their families were brought up to be wives or caregivers for their parents, while their male counterparts received education and resources.

Thoughts of these girls and other people who are devalued because of their gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, economic status or other personally defining characteristics, dismay and motivate her. She is here to change the world for them through her position and relationships. Today, Cynthia is the executive director of The Boone Family Foundation and use a $5 million annual budget to support nonprofit organizations that advance equity for women and girls, improve the educational quality of life for children and promote environmental stewardship. She also is a founding member and chair of the Orchid Giving Circle, an organization whose mission is to increase awareness of the local Asian population, community needs and knowledge about philanthropy.