From Staff Reports

ASHEVILLE, N.C. —The University of North Carolina Asheville dedicated the Oscar Wong Memorial Garden on April 23, honoring the life, leadership, and lasting contributions of Oscar Wong as an entrepreneur, community leader, visionary and long-time supporter of the university, a UNCA press release noted on April 24.

Wong, founder of Highland Brewing Company and widely known as the “Godfather of Asheville craft beer,” played a significant role in shaping the Asheville community, UNCA’s release stated. 

(Wong reportedly died “peacefully at home” on May 25, 2025, at the age of 84.)

A former member of the university’s Board of Trustees, where he served two terms, and a recipient of an honorary degree from UNCA in 2024, Wong’s legacy reflects a deep commitment to education, community service and innovation.

“Oscar Wong believed deeply in the power of education and community,” UNCA Chancellor Kimberly van Noort said at the dedication. 

“His support of UNC Asheville reflected his commitment to opportunity. This garden will serve as a lasting tribute to his generosity, vision, and belief in what our students can achieve.”

Born to Chinese immigrants and raised in Jamaica, Wong moved to the United States in 1959 to study engineering at the University of Notre Dame, later building a successful career in nuclear engineering. 

After planning to retire to Asheville in 1992, Wong founded Highland Brewing Company in 1994, launching the city’s first craft brewery since Prohibition (1920-33)and helping establish Asheville as a national leader in craft brewing, the UNCA release noted.

Beyond his entrepreneurial achievements, Wong was deeply committed to community service, serving as president of the Asheville Rotary Club, board chair for Arc of Buncombe County, and a member of the McCullough Community Advisory Board for the McCullough Institute at UNC Asheville, the release stated. 

In 2023, he received North Carolina’s highest civilian honor, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, in recognition of his contributions to the state.

“Oscar was adored by all who knew him and was inspiring as a leader. He walked quietly and with humor; but left indelible footprints that are impossible to fill,” said Leslie McCullough Casse said in the release. “This garden will be a vibrant, living memorial for a life well-lived and well-loved.”

“Oscar was a valued member of the Board of Trustees and a wonderful colleague,” Roger Aiken,chair of the UNCA Board of Trustees, said. “He brought insight and a genuine passion for the University. His leadership left a lasting impression on all of us who had the privilege of working alongside him.”

“Oscar’s influence extended far beyond his business accomplishments,” Shannon Earle, vice chancellor for University Advancement, said. “He was wholeheartedly committed to building community, supporting education, and investing in the future of Asheville. Oscar’s generosity and leadership created opportunities that continue to enrich UNC Asheville and Western North Carolina.” 

The release added, "The Oscar Wong Memorial Garden, located outside of the McCullough Institute in Karpen Hall, provides a space for reflection and gathering, recognizing Wong’s enduring connection to the University and his impact on Western North Carolina."