The Mini Lai Scholarship Fund was created out of love—love for the late Mini Lai, a talented illustrator and proud Art Center alum. The fund strives to honor her memory by granting scholarships to Art Center Illustration students, inspiring them to pursue their dreams no matter what challenges life presents.

“In Between” by Ming Ong

The fund is made possible by the generous donations of her family and friends, and is managed by the California Community Foundation and scholarships are awarded by the College’s Illustration Department.

While a student at the University of California, Irvine, Lai was diagnosed with congenital heart disease, ultimately requiring a heart transplant. With this second chance at life, she pursued her life-long passion for art, studying Illustration at Art Center.

Lai received scholarships while at Art Center, and this fund exists to continue the cycle of giving.

“Mini leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and hope,” says Ming Lai, Mini’s brother. “Through the Mini Lai Scholarship Fund, we can cherish her memory and inspire Art Center Illustration students to take on the world.”

On October 23, The Mini Show will be held at South Campus to raise money for the Mini Lai Scholarship Fund. The show is being produced through the tireless efforts of Mini’s family and friends and will showcase the work of Art Center Illustration alumni, with all of the proceeds going to the fund. The group exhibition will feature high-quality, affordable artwork, each piece priced at no more than $300. Interested Illustration alums who would like to participate can apply here.

To learn more about the Mini Lai Scholarship Fund, and donate through the California Community Foundation, visit minilai.com and calfund.org/give/minilaischolarship.php.