Tamara Saito Chao was inducted into the Philanthropy Category in 2026.
Tamara Chao (she/her) is President and Executive Director of the Asian Pacific Fund. A leader in equity and social impact, she brings extensive experience in philanthropy, international development, and strategic grantmaking. Raised in Oakland's Dimond district as the daughter of a Japanese mother and Chinese father, Tamara's commitment to service is rooted in the Bay Area's multicultural community. Her career spans global diplomacy, grassroots economic development, and mission-driven philanthropy. She previously served as a Political Officer with the U.S. Department of State in Myanmar and worked with Chemonics International on agriculture and economic growth initiatives in Afghanistan and the Middle East. Her early work at the Center for American Progress focused on human rights and national service. Before joining APF, she was Vice President for Learning & Impact at the Women Donors Network. Tamara holds an MBA from the University of Michigan and a BA from Tufts University.
