Janet Yang makes history as the Academy's new President; a first for a person of Asian descent

Congratulations are in order for Emmy Award and Golden Globe-winning producer Janet Yang, as she has been elected as the Academy’s newest President. Yang makes history as the first-ever Asian American, the second person of color, and the fourth woman to serve as The Academy’s President since being founded 95 years ago.

Yang is known for her work on many notable Hollywood films with Asian actors and themes, including The Joy Luck Club, Dark Matter, Shanghai Calling, and Over the Moon.

“Janet is a tremendously dedicated and strategic leader who has an incredible record of service at the Academy. She has been instrumental in launching and elevating several Academy initiatives on membership recruitment, governance, and equity, diversity, and inclusion,” noted Academy CEO Bill Kramer in a press release. “I am thrilled that she is taking on the esteemed role of Academy President and look forward to working closely with her on our shared vision to serve our membership, celebrate the collaborative arts and sciences of motion pictures, and inspire the next generation of filmmakers.”

In an Instagram post, Yang wrote, “Your well wishes worked! I’m so honored to be recognized by my esteemed peers. I adore Bill Kramer, the Academy staff, and my fellow Governors. Thank you all for your support.”

Yang is the daughter of Chinese immigrants and was born in Queens, New York. She holds a B.A. from Brown University in Chinese studies and an M.B.A. from Columbia University. Yang is also a co-founder of Gold House.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is a global community of more than 10,000 of the most accomplished artists, filmmakers and executives working in film. Most notably, the Academy is known for its Academy Awards, popularly known as “The Oscars.”