Angela Chao, CEO and Chair of the Foremost Group, a renowned shipping firm, died in a car accident in Texas on Sunday, February 11, 2024.
She was fifty years old. She was also the sister-in-law of Mitch McConnell, the Senate Minority Leader, and former Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao. Here is all we know so far about the tragic tragedy, as well as Angela Chao’s life and legacy.
Angela Chao Accident
Angela Chao was traveling on private property in Johnson City, Texas, when her automobile collided with water at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, according to the Blanco County Sheriff’s Office.
She was the only occupant in the vehicle and was pronounced deceased at the site. The cause of the crash is still being investigated, and no foul play is suspected.
Angela Chao’s buddy owns the ranch, and he invited her to stay for the weekend. Angela Chao was apparently on her way to the airport to board a trip back to New York when the accident occurred.
McConnells sister-in-law, Angela Chao, has died in a car accident.
“Chao entered her Tesla and backed into a pond on the ranch, and passed away.” – Kyle Bass pic.twitter.com/3crwJe3sod
— 🇺🇸ProudArmyBrat (@leslibless) February 15, 2024
The Reaction
Angela Chao’s death has shocked and saddened many people, particularly her family, friends, and coworkers. James S.C. Chao, founder and honorary chairman of the Foremost Group, released a statement expressing both pain and pride in his youngest daughter.
He said, “Angela’s name in Chinese sounds like the characters for peace and prosperity. She certainly gave more than her share of both to this world. Her absence leaves a void not only in our hearts but in the Asian-American community.”
Angela Chao’s sister, Elaine Chao, who was Transportation Secretary under former President Donald Trump, released a statement on behalf of her husband, Mitch McConnell, and their family.
She said, “We are heartbroken by the sudden and tragic loss of our beloved sister, Angela. She was an extraordinary person who touched so many lives with her grace, intelligence, and generosity. She was a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, wife, and mother. All those who knew and loved her will miss her terribly.”
Angela Chao’s company, the Foremost Group, also mourned her death and praised her leadership and vision. The company said, “Angela Chao was a formidable executive and shipping industry leader, as well as a proud and loving daughter, sister, aunt, wife, and mother. She was a charismatic and visionary leader who led Foremost Group with passion and integrity. She was deeply committed to the company’s values of excellence, innovation, and social responsibility. She was an inspiration to her colleagues and a mentor to many young professionals in the maritime sector.“
Many other organizations and individuals have expressed their condolences and tributes to Angela Chao, including the United States Coast Guard Academy, where she served on the board, the Asian American Foundation, where she was a founding advisory council co-chair, and the Metropolitan Opera, where she was a board member.
The Legacy
Angela Chao was a notable person in both the shipping industry and Asian American society. She joined the Foremost Group, a family-owned dry bulk shipping company, in 1996 and was appointed CEO and chair in 2018.
TAAF is heartbroken to learn of the devastating death of Angela Chao. A brilliant & committed leader, Angela’s warmth, kindness & infectious energy will live on in our work for decades to come. We extend our deepest sympathies to the Chao family during this tragic time. pic.twitter.com/q6Ldd4f3NV
— The Asian American Foundation (@taaforg) February 12, 2024
She managed the company’s operations, strategy, and growth, as well as its efforts to implement environmentally friendly and energy-efficient methods.
She also served on the boards of the American Bureau of Shipping Council, the International Maritime Organization’s Hong Kong Advisory Committee, and the China State Shipbuilding Corporation’s International Advisory Committee.
Angela Chao was a Harvard graduate, published author, and philanthropist. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Harvard College and Harvard Business School, respectively. She wrote a case study on “Ocean Carriers,” which is part of Harvard Business School’s first-year curriculum.
She has also written numerous articles and books on economics, international commerce, finance, and education. She supported a variety of causes and organizations, including LGBTQ+ rights, mental health awareness, environmental protection, and arts and culture.
Angela Chao was also a kind and dedicated family member and friend. She married Jim Breyer, a venture capitalist and founder of Breyer Capital, and they had a daughter named Emma. She was extremely close with her five sisters, including Elaine Chao, and their families. She liked to travel, paint, and watch films and shows with her loved ones.
Angela Chao’s tragedy was devastating and unexpected, taking away a great and respected woman. She left a legacy of greatness, leadership, and charity that will be remembered and celebrated by many.
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