Dr. James S.C. Chao, Chairman, Foremost Group, New York, NY
Born in Shanghai, China, Dr. James S.C. Chao has dedicated his life to shipping, trading, and financing. He began his career in shipping as a cadet on ocean-going vessels after completing his college coursework in China. By the mid-1950’s he had advanced through the ranks to become one of the youngest ocean-going marine masters. In 1958, he shattered all previous records in the Republic of China by achieving the highest score ever on the national Master Mariner Examination. By 1964, he founded Foremost Maritime Corporation and developed it to the current Foremost Group and remains as Chairman to this day.
An active and committed volunteer and supporter of higher education, he has served as an Advisor, adjunct professor, and Trustee of St. John’s University’s Board of Trustees where he received the Medal of Honor and the title of Trustee Emeritus of the Board of Trustees. He also served as Chairman of the Chiao-Tung University Alumni Association in America from 1988-1999. Active in many philanthropic activities, Dr. Chao is the recipient of numerous awards for his professional accomplishments and community service. He was inducted into the International Maritime Hall of Fame at the United Nations and received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor award.