Hero Artist:
An individual who possesses immense talent in the arts and entertainment field meanwhile devoting his/herself to the community.

In 2013, after the tragic passing of Brian Tha Saechao and his two year old son, Raphael, the Iu-Mien Student Conference (IMSC) committee created the Hero Artist Scholarship Award.  Nearly a decade ago, while volunteering for IMSC, Brian had visions of creating an art scholarship.  Yearly, the awards are presented to the recipients during the Iu-Mien Student Conference in the Sacramento, CA region.  The conference promotes higher education, community advocacy, and cultural identity.  Today, we honor Brian and hope that this scholarship fulfills his dream and preserves his endearing memory, legacy, and spirit forever.