“Through Nine Winters, Marissa has created a warm, welcoming environment that uplifts community voices, celebrates culture, and offers opportunities for meaningful connections. It is a community hub that strengthens networks of care. Marissa has extended her values into her advocacy. She has stood alongside survivors of intimacy violence with compassion and dedication, helping raise awareness of domestic violence, creating safer spaces for dialogue, and providing tangible resources. Marissa’s vison, impact, and unwavering dedication to community building make her an invaluable leader and a deeply respected member of the Pan-Asian community.”