University High School DHH students. 
Andee Kang speaking with DHH students. 
Andee Kang discussing his time on “Project Runway” Korea with DHH students. 
Kevin Toh, Esther Han, Zione Hong and Andie Kang. 
Zione Hong speaking with DHH students. 
Zione Hong showcasing animations using sign language. 
Kevin Toh speaking with DHH students.
For some students, including those with disabilities, a bright future can often feel difficult to imagine. That’s why the Connections at University High School Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program (DHH) arranged for three alumni to return to speak about their unique paths to success.
Earlier in November, alumni Andee Kang, Zione Hong and Kevin Toh shared their experiences growing up as Deaf Asian Americans and explained how those experiences shaped their careers in fashion design, animation and information technology, respectively.
Teacher Esther Han — an alumnus of the program herself — reflected on the significance of the day and the impact it had on her students.
“The presentations were not only engaging, but also highly inspirational, offering valuable insights that resonated deeply with the audience,” she said. “Most importantly, the DHH students felt connected to the guest speakers’ journeys — Deaf immigrants who overcame barriers with courage and determination.”
Han was largely responsible for organizing the event, citing her desire to “demonstrate the power of determination and effort, while offering relatable role models who embody this message.”
She also pointed out how seeing firsthand representation of individuals who are deaf especially resonated with her students. This form of representation can help engage and motivate them in ways traditional education might not.
Since graduating from University High School’s DHH program, all three alumni have firmly established themselves in their respective fields.
Kang graduated from Parsons Design School in New York City and was later featured on “Project Runway” Korea in 2012. Since then, he has built a successful career as a fashion designer and stylist for various Korean actors and K-pop stars.
Hong attends Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles as a 2D and 3D animation major. Additionally, she works for a company that creates animations using sign language. Their largest project, “Harmonium” — a sign language musical turned narrative adventure game — will be featured on both Netflix Games and Microsoft Game Pass.
After graduating from the Rochester Institute of Technology, Tohs’s career path was not nearly as linear. He delved into the world of graphic design, entertainment and product development before making his mark in IT support — a testament to his willingness to step out of his comfort zone.
Han hopes that learning about the alumni’s varying career paths will have a lasting impact on her students, serving as a catalyst for their future endeavors.