Mary Yin Liu, CEO of the Asian Pacific American Public Affairs (APAPA), has been recognized as the 2025 Yolo County Woman of the Year for her outstanding contributions to public service, business, and community leadership. The honor was bestowed at a special recognition reception on March 2 at Trinchero Napa Valley Winery in California, hosted by U.S. Representative Mike Thompson.

A dedicated member of the Davis community for over two decades, Liu has left an indelible mark across multiple fields, from law to business and philanthropy. She previously served as Vice President of the Solano County Women Lawyers Association and is a highly successful entrepreneur, owning 21 McDonald’s restaurants across Yolo, Solano, and Sacramento counties. Notably, she became the first minority woman to chair the Northern California McDonald's Operators Association, further solidifying her reputation as a trailblazer.

U.S. Representative Mike Thompson commended Liu’s intelligence, leadership, and commitment to service, emphasizing the profound impact she has made not only in business and law but also in community advocacy. One of her most significant achievements is the founding of Thriving Pink, a Davis-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting breast cancer patients and their families. Through mentorship programs, financial assistance, support groups, and educational workshops, Thriving Pink provides a critical lifeline to those affected by the disease. Liu expressed deep gratitude for the volunteers and survivors who uphold the organization’s mission, many of whom have personally battled breast cancer.

Beyond her local efforts, Liu is a key figure in advancing the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Continuing the legacy of her parents, CC Yin and Regina Yin, who founded APAPA, she has expanded the organization’s internship programs and launched the first-ever California Asian American Advocacy Day at the State Capitol. The annual event, set to take place again on April 28, is expected to bring together AAPI leaders from across the state to advocate for greater representation and community interests.

Liu’s contributions have garnered widespread recognition. In 2024, she was named one of the “Top 20 AAPI Changemakers” by the Sacramento Bee, and in 2022, she was honored as Woman of the Year by California State Assemblymember Jim Cooper. Reflecting on her journey, Liu acknowledges the pioneers who paved the way and remains committed to mentoring the next generation of leaders. With an unwavering dedication to public service, business, and community empowerment, she continues to drive meaningful change.

(Contributing Writer: Adrian Wang)