Julie Chen (1970 - ) & Susu Wong (1963 - )

Life-partners for more than 30 years, Julie Chen and Susu Wong are powerful models of purpose‑driven leadership. Chen, an engineer and researcher, has been the dynamic Chancellor of UMass Lowell since 2022.  Among her many accomplishments there, she has championed first‑generation students, expanded research opportunities, and created paid internships for every undergraduate. Her service on National Science Foundation advisory groups and federal panels has helped shape national priorities in science and innovation. Chen’s wife, Susu Wong, is the Founder and CEO of Tomo360, an online marketing agency that supports mission‑driven small businesses and organizations. She is also the co‑founder of Women Accelerators, a nonprofit that advances women with mentorship and professional development programming. Her volunteerism includes work as the Chair of the Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce and board member of OUTbio, the nation’s largest LGBTQIA+ network for biotech and life sciences professionals.  Together, Chen and Wong created the LGBTQ+ Fund at the Greater Lowell Community Foundation that provides grants to nonprofits supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.