Crystal Chen Lee, 38, went to be with the Lord Jesus Christ on Saturday, June 14, 2025, after courageously enduring a short battle with cancer. Crystal was a friend to many at Refugee Hope Partners and her husband (Daniel) serves as a beloved board member of our organization.

As a gifted scholar, teacher, advocate, and woman of faith, Crystal devoted her life to uplifting the voices of those often overlooked—particularly underserved and refugee youth. Through her visionary work founding the Literacy and Community Initiative at NC State University, Crystal helped students from our community share their stories with the world, believing firmly in the power of words and education to transform lives. She embodied the heart of our mission by welcoming, empowering, and walking alongside our neighbors with humility and love.

We are honored to establish the Crystal Chen Lee Memorial Hope Scholarship Fund as a way of continuing her legacy and memory. The mission of this fund is to amplify hope through refugee voices, storytelling, and scholarship.