Show-Me State Times

The Panda Charitable Family Foundation, directed by University of Missouri alumni Andrew and Peggy Cherng, has pledged $5 million to the MU Honors College. This donation aims to support scholarships and programming for exceptional students. The Cherngs, founders of the Panda Restaurant Group, Inc., which owns the Panda Express chain, have now donated over $10 million to Mizzou.

“We’re grateful to Andrew and Peggy Cherng for their incredible, ongoing support of MU Honors students,” said University of Missouri President Mun Choi. “This latest investment in student success allows us to provide even more impactful opportunities through our Honors College and to secure Mizzou’s spot as one of the top public universities in the nation for future leaders.”

Andrew Cherng holds a master’s degree in applied mathematics from Mizzou’s College of Arts and Science, while Peggy Cherng earned a master’s degree in computer science and a doctorate in electrical engineering from the MU College of Engineering.

“The education we each received from Mizzou was instrumental to our success, and we hope this gift will provide additional tools to prepare the best students in the state and nation for transformational career opportunities,” said the Cherngs. “We are delighted to continue to support one of the nation’s best colleges and to provide resources to improve lives and train future leaders.”

Funding from the Panda Charitable Family Foundation has enabled the Honors College to offer premier educational experiences. Catherine Rymph, dean of the Honors College, stated: “This pledge will allow the Honors College to expand our scholarship offerings and programming innovations. I’m especially excited to be able to increase the number of scholarships that provide students with hands-on experiences, such as research, internships, and service learning, and to launch additional need-based scholarships.”

The original gift from the Cherngs in 2017 facilitated new student experiences within the college. Since then, funding has supported various scholarship programs including Show-Me Scholars for first-year Missouri students; Cherng Scholars for out-of-state students; Panda-Mizzou Scholars for those pursuing education or health-related majors; and Cherng Summer Scholars which funds summer research projects.

Additionally, through the Cherng Distinguished Scholars and Visiting Faculty series, notable guests visit campus annually. Last spring's keynote lecture featured Andrew Leland whose book was named a 2024 Pulitzer Prize finalist.

“The Cherngs have been catalysts for the Honors College,” said Jackie Lewis, vice chancellor for advancement. “As Mizzou continues to champion student experiences and educate future leaders, their continued support empowers us forward.”

Under their leadership at Panda Restaurant Group, Forbes recognized it as one of America’s best employers. The group was also ranked as a top Asian quick-service concept by QSR Magazine for seven consecutive years. The Cherngs are inducted into National Restaurant Association Hall of Fame.

Beyond supporting Mizzou, they give back through Panda Cares Foundation which has donated millions since 1999.

The MU Honors College enrolls around 2,700 students with over 13,000 alumni. It is staffed by eight core faculty members alongside nearly 80 affiliate faculty who contribute across more than 270 courses offered annually.