Melinda Hsia Named a "Woman of the Year" in the 29th Congressional District

Melinda Hsia Named a “Woman of the Year” in the 29th Congressional District

Washington, D.C. – On Saturday at a reception in Pasadena, Representative Adam Schiff honored Melinda Hsia for her commitment and service to South Pasadena by naming her a “Woman of the Year.” 

“Melinda’s handiwork adorns the entire community, whether as a refurbished classroom or as a floral centerpiece, and her selfless service is an invaluable asset to South Pasadena,” said Schiff. “She has been a tireless advocate of our schools and has fostered a whole new generation of young people determined to give back.”

Born in San Francisco, Melinda graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a major in Bacteriology and received her Doctor of Pharmacy at the University of Southern California. She began to master the art of multi-tasking while working at the Glendale Adventist Medical Center for 16 years, when in addition to her medical pursuits, she obtained her real estate license and sold houses part-time. By the time her children, Andrew and Chloe, were born and her husband, Tom, retired, Melinda had become a veteran at juggling multiple roles. Outside of her volunteer efforts Melinda is an avid gardener and a pharmacist at Costco Alhambra where she counsels everyone from pediatric to elderly patients.

Melinda’s children have inspired her community involvement year after year. She began as a PTA member at their elementary school, helping to coordinate talent shows, musical productions, and promotions. Once her children entered high school, Melinda became the South Pasadena Music Boosters Club President and an active member of several other committees which coordinate fundraisers and competitions to support athletic and school clubs. She is currently South Pasadena High School’s PTSA Vice President of Programs. In this capacity, Melinda coordinates speaker forums such as “Over-the-Counter Drugs and Teens” and the Developing Capable Young People series. In 2007 she received South Pasadena High School’s PTSA Volunteer of the Year award.

In addition to her PTSA involvement, Melinda serves her community as repeat President of the South Pasadena Chinese American Club, which raises funds for local public schools and community projects. The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, Huntington Library’s Chinese Garden, the South Pasadena Educational Foundation, and the Union Station Foundation’s Adopt-A-Meal program have all benefited from Melinda’s exemplary philanthropic leadership. She has supplemented her already busy schedule with positions on South Pasadena School District’s Real Estate and Budget Advisory Committees and sits on the Board of Directors for the City’s Chamber of Commerce.

Every March, during Women’s History Month, Rep. Schiff honors one outstanding woman from each of the communities in the 29th Congressional District.  These women come from all walks of life and represent the thousands of women who make a positive impact in our region.  While there are no specific criteria for nomination, Rep. Schiff looks for women who — through their work or volunteerism — have improved the quality of life for our community.

Rep. Schiff represents California’s 29th Congressional District, which includes the communities of Alhambra, Altadena, Burbank, Glendale, Monterey Park, Pasadena, San Gabriel, South Pasadena and Temple City.

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