Andrew Lee describes himself as a Korean-American. Although he was born in the United States, his parents are Korean, he speaks the language and he is proud of his Asian heritage.

That is one reason, professionally and privately, he likes to support and promote the Asian business community in San Diego, his home for the past 12 years. Lee, 31, works as business development manager for the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, a position that brings him into close contact with a wide range of business and community organizations.

These include the the San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau, Regional Economic Development Corp., Regional Technology Alliance, World Trade Association and the San Diego Venture Group.

Lee’s connections also extend to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, membership in the Korean Business Association, and the vice presidency of the Asian Business Association. That role takes up much of his spare time as he helps formulate and develop policies and ways to involve the Asian business community with the wider business community and San Diego as a whole.

Another important commitment is his appointment as a Red Shirt member of the Culligan Holiday Bowl organizing committee, helping to maximize the benefits of this annual collegiate football event.

Lee also is a committee member for the Chinese New Year celebrations Downtown, a volunteer who serves meals for the Salvation Army at Thanksgiving and Christmas, and is active in cleaning the beach for the I Love A Clean San Diego County campaign.

In addition, he has acted as mentor for a Leukemia Society fund-raising marathon and for the Boys & Girls Club, and he retains membership in his two alumni associations, San Diego State University and the University of San Diego.

— Frank Nelson