(HONG KONG, November 1, 2016) — Asia Society Hong Kong Center mourns the loss of Ambassador Burton Levin, founding executive director of Asia Society Hong Kong Center. A retired diplomat with extensive experience in Asian affairs, Ambassador Levin was recruited by ASHK's founding chairman, the late Sir Q.W. Lee, as the center's first executive director in 1990. Together they helped expanding Asia Society’s original mission of educating Americans about Asia to include educating Asians about America and to promote mutual understanding and strengthening partnerships among peoples, leaders and institutions of Asia.

In paying tribute to Ambassador Levin, Ronnie Chan, Asia Society co-chair and chair of Asia Society Hong Kong Center, said: "Burt had one of the most endearing personalities: his humor was refreshing. He loved Asia, in particular, China. I am so privileged to have had the opportunity to first befriend him and later to work with him. We will miss him greatly."

As a recognition to his immense contribution to Asia Society Hong Kong Center, the Ambassador Burton Levin Lecture Series was created upon his retirement in 1995. Alice Mong, executive director of ASHK, noted that the series was more than just honoring Ambassador Levin. "It is also intended to facilitate, broaden and enrich dialogue about inter-Asian relations and U.S.-Asia relations," said Mong.