Beijing: U.S. Champion Figure Skater Michelle Kwan honored at U.S. Ambassador’s Evening Reception

The U.S. Ambassador to China, Clark T. Randt, Jr. opened his home on the evening of January 18, 2007 to influential Chinese leaders from the arts and entertainment, and business and sciences to honor U.S. Champion Figure Skater and American Public Diplomacy Envoy Michelle Kwan.  Guests who turned out to meet Ms. Kwan included Mr. Cui Jian, the “Father of Rock & Roll in China,” Chinese Olympic champion speed skater Ms. Wang Meng, and rising Chinese singing sensation Ms. Zhang Lingying, who entertained guests with her soulful rendition of Minnie Riperton’s “Lov’n You.”  The Ambassador introduced Ms. Kwan, the most decorated American in women’s figure skating, as America’s shining example of applying hard work to achieve one’s dreams.  Ms. Kwan addressed the guests, explaining her desire to inspire, especially young children, in her role as America’s first Public Diplomacy Envoy.

Guests were delighted to have the opportunity to meet Ms. Kwan.  Two Chinese corporate women leaders in attendance remarked how Ms Kwan’s record of achievement on the ice and now as a shining example of American culture is a true inspiration for them as young business leaders in China.  Later, they had their picture taken with the champion ice skater.

Ms. Kwan met many of China’s most influential opinion shapers Thursday evening.  Guests who came to meet the great American figure skater found in Michelle Kwan a wonderful example of American hard work, sacrifice and above all, graciousness.