Recipients
Please join us in congratulating TD SYNNEX Corporation’s 2025 Huang Leadership Development Scholarship recipients and their parents!
Huang Leadership Development Scholarship – 2025 Recipients
The Huang Leadership Development Scholarship was established by SYNNEX founder Bob and Lily Huang in recognition of the loyalty and dedication of employees worldwide. The Huang Leadership Development Scholarship Fund was established in 2011 through a generous gift from Bob and Lily Huang. TD SYNNEX Corporation also contributes to the fund by matching the Huangs’ gift to award up to ten eligible candidates with scholarships of up to $10,000 each year. TD SYNNEX is honored to partner with Bob and Lily in their commitment to help influence the growth and advancement of our future leaders.
The scholarship recipients were selected based on academic excellence and leadership qualities as demonstrated through their personal statements, letters of recommendation, and school and community involvement. Lily and Bob Huang, together with TD SYNNEX, congratulate the 2025 Huang Scholarship recipients: Mackenzie Couvillion, Thiago Waihrich Kuhn, Zachary Del Vecchio, Yixiang Chen, Isabelle Stephani, Kylie Cheng, Andrew Lou, and Dylan Leighton.
Mackenzie Couvillion
University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
Major: Chemical Engineering
Legal Guardian: Ryan Whicker, Sr. Director of Legal Counsel at TD SYNNEX – Mountain Brook, AL (USA)
Mackenzie Couvillion (Mac) is pursuing a degree in chemical engineering at University of Michigan, where he’s combining his interests in science, technology, and leadership. In high school, he was a standout scholar-athlete, balancing a rigorous academic schedule with year-round varsity basketball. He also coached younger players and mentored teammates, showing a strong commitment to teamwork and personal growth.
Outside of sports, Mac is known for his steady presence and thoughtful leadership. As the oldest of six siblings, he often took on the role of tutor, driver, and listener, and was actively involved in his church community, leading Vacation Bible School and youth activities. He also worked summers at a logistics company, where he helped build client databases, wrote marketing emails, and contributed to website design, experiences that sparked his interest in engineering and problem-solving.
Mac enjoys spending time outdoors, whether skiing, hiking, or mountain biking, and recently climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro. He’s excited to explore new opportunities in college, both academically and personally, and looks forward to applying his curiosity and drive to make a meaningful impact.
Ethan Xu
University of Toronto (St. George Campus)
Major: Commerce (Finance & Economics) & Mathematics
Parent: Feng Xu, Sr. Buyer at TD SYNNEX – Mississauga, ON (CA)
Ethan Xu is studying finance and economics and minoring in mathematics at the University of Toronto, where he’s exploring the intersection of data, finance, and public policy. In high school, Ethan stood out for his ability to integrate complex ideas across disciplines, producing advanced economic models and simulations that tackled real-world issues like housing markets and financial crises. His academic work was complemented by a summer internship at a fintech company, where he helped improve AI models used to process financial documents for institutional clients.
Beyond academics, Ethan is known for his collaborative mindset and leadership in group settings. He consistently took initiative in research projects and was recognized for his ability to mediate ideas and enhance team performance. His interests span mathematics, economics, and technology, and he’s passionate about using data-driven insights to solve systemic challenges.
Ethan looks forward to deepening his understanding of financial systems and policy analysis while continuing to explore innovative applications of technology in economics. He brings curiosity, discipline, and a strong sense of purpose to everything he does.
Thiago Waihrich Kuhn
University of Michigan
Major: Computer Science
Parent: Marcelo Kuhn, IT Director at TD SYNNEX – Weston, FL (USA)
Thiago is studying computer science at the University of Michigan where he’s combining his technical skills with a strong interest in leadership and entrepreneurship. In high school, he was an active member of the DECA business club, where he competed at the international level in marketing decision-making events, and served on the DECA leadership council.
Thiago also held leadership roles in multiple organizations, including serving as president of the National Association of High School Changemakers and marketing director for the Computer Science Honor Society. He worked at Code Ninjas, teaching younger students how to code, and consistently demonstrated a passion for mentoring and community engagement.
Now, Thiago is focused on expanding his knowledge of technology and its applications in business and education. He brings creativity, discipline, and a collaborative spirit to every project, and is eager to continue making a positive impact through innovation and service.
Zachary Del Vecchio
University of California (Los Angeles)
Major: Political Science
Parent: Adam Del Vecchio, Sales Director at TD SYNNEX – Long Beach, CA (USA)
Zachary is studying political science at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he brings a thoughtful and grounded approach to learning. In high school, he was part of the academically rigorous PACE program and stood out for his strong writing, intellectual curiosity, and ability to connect ideas with real-world relevance.
He was recognized by teachers for his maturity, integrity, and leadership in the classroom. Zachary pursued independent research on decision-making, a topic that allowed him to reflect deeply on his own habits and values. His work was praised not only for its academic merit but also for its personal insight.
Zachary is known for his ability to balance academic demands with meaningful extracurricular involvement. He approaches challenges with clarity and compassion, and he’s excited to continue exploring how ideas shape human experience and community.
Yixiang Chen
University of California (Berkeley)
Major: Business Administration
Parent: Alhua Yang, SW Engineering at Hyve Solutions – Pleasanton, CA (USA)
Yixiang is studying business at the University of California, Berkeley, where he’s part of the Global Management Program. He stands out for his leadership, professionalism, and ability to foster meaningful collaboration. In the classroom, he’s known for contributing thoughtful insights and consistently producing high-quality work.
Outside of academics, Yixiang has made a significant impact through his nonprofit work. As Co-President of Be the Change Foundation, he led a team that published over 50 educational video books and launched a micro-donation campaign that raised over $20,000. He also founded Youth for Finance, a financial literacy initiative that earned him recognition in Forbes.
Yixiang is a people-first leader who brings structure, creativity, and compassion to everything he does. Whether mentoring peers or driving innovation, he consistently demonstrates maturity and vision. He’s excited to continue using his skills to create positive change in both business and community spaces.
Isabelle Stephani
University of California (Los Angeles)
Major: Computer Science
Parent: Otto Stephani, Strategic Business Manager at TD SYNNEX – Chicago, IL (USA)
Isabelle is studying computer science at the University of California, Los Angeles, where she brings a rare combination of academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement. In high school, she completed a rigorous course load including 14 AP classes and earned recognition as a National Merit Semifinalist. She was known for her perseverance, collaborative spirit, and ability to thrive in challenging environments.
Beyond the classroom, Isabelle led initiatives that supported both her peers and her broader community. She served as president of the French Honors Society and Career Club, mentored younger students, and collaborated with faculty and parents to expand college readiness resources. She was also a dedicated member of the math team, tennis team, and lacrosse team, participating in city and state competitions.
Isabelle’s commitment to service extended outside of school through tutoring, volunteering with the Anti-Cruelty Society, and working with young artists at Easel Art Studio. She approaches every opportunity with curiosity and care, and she’s excited to continue growing as a leader and learner in college and beyond.
Kylie Cheng
University of California (Los Angeles)
Major: Nursing
Parent: Chui Yee Cheng, Inside Account Executive at TD SYNNEX – San Ramon, CA (USA)
Kylie is studying nursing at the University of California, Los Angeles, where she has earned a spot on the Dean’s Honor List every quarter since starting the program. Known for her academic excellence and clinical skill, she brings compassion, professionalism, and initiative to every patient interaction. Her professors and clinical supervisors consistently praise her critical thinking, teamwork, and dedication to high-quality care.
Outside the classroom, Kylie works as a Certified Nursing Assistant and volunteers in multiple health-related initiatives. She has led cancer education efforts through UCLA’s American Cancer Society chapter, organized foot care clinics for unhoused individuals, and coordinated fundraisers and workshops for the Critical Care Nursing Club. Her leadership has helped raise over $300,000 for cancer research and expanded access to health education across communities.
Kylie’s passion for nursing was shaped by her grandmother’s battle with breast cancer, inspiring her focus on cancer prevention and patient advocacy. Fluent in Cantonese and conversant in Mandarin, she connects deeply with diverse populations. Kylie exemplifies integrity, empathy, and drive, and she’s committed to making a lasting impact in the field of healthcare.
Andrew Luo
University of Pennsylvania
Major: Finance & Mechanical Engineering
Parent: Dongqi Liu, Testing Manager at Hyve Solutions – Fremont, CA (USA)
Andrew is pursuing a dual degree in finance and mechanical engineering through the Jerome Fisher Program at the University of Pennsylvania. His passion for innovation and problem-solving was shaped by experiences in STEM and entrepreneurship, including leading his high school robotics team and developing a drone project that delivers emergency medical supplies to remote areas. He is especially interested in ideas that combine technology with real world impact.
In high school, Andrew co-founded a financial literacy startup and helped mentor younger students through a robotics outreach initiative. He stood out in the classroom for his quick grasp of complex concepts and his ability to lead group projects with both humor and focus. He enjoys working with others to bring ideas to life whether in a lab, a classroom, or a startup setting.
Andrew looks forward to joining student organizations that explore the intersection of business, technology, and social impact. He is also a dedicated violinist and plans to continue performing while expanding his interests in innovation and leadership. College offers him the opportunity to grow both academically and personally, and he is eager to explore that journey.
Dylan Leighton
University of Florida
Major: Business & Pre-Law
Parent: Carolyn Leighton, Sr. Manager of Business Development at TD SYNNEX – Trinity, FL (USA)
Dylan is pursuing a Business Management degree on a pre-law track at the University of Florida, where he is building a strong academic foundation and demonstrating a deep commitment to excellence and service. His ultimate goal is to attend the University of Florida Levin College of Law and become an attorney who advocates for others and makes a positive impact in people’s lives. While in high school, he earned an Associate of Arts degree through dual enrollment and graduated at the top of his class while balancing varsity athletics and a rigorous academic schedule. Dylan also earned a roster spot on the Florida Gators Football team as a middle linebacker.
Beyond academics, Dylan has demonstrated excellence in leadership and mentorship. As a varsity football captain and president of Mitchell Mentoring, he helped peers believe in themselves, fostering connection, morale, and lasting confidence. Through school and community outreach, he also volunteered his time mentoring younger students and supporting local service initiatives. His first-place win in the Business Finance category at the FBLA district competition reflects his passion for business and aligns with his long-term goal of becoming a lawyer “who serves as a voice for those who don’t have one”. Dylan was also awarded the Principal’s Award for his outstanding leadership, academics, and service, recognizing his character and dedication both in and out of the classroom.
Dylan’s most meaningful experience came when he helped care for his grandfather following his nonna’s passing in 2023. Taking on daily tasks, Dr appointments, and companionship taught him patience, resilience, and the quiet power of compassion. He learned that true leadership often reveals itself in everyday moments rather than in trophies or applause, a lesson he carries into the classroom, the locker room, and his path toward law. He is always grounded by his Nonna’s words: “Be happy, try your best, and you will be great”.
2025 Recipient Luncheon
Bob and Lily Huang hosted the first-ever virtual Appreciation Luncheon in July, bringing together Huang Leadership Development Scholarship Committee members, awardees, and their families to celebrate the program’s continued global impact. The event welcomed 36 attendees, including 15 past recipients, TD SYNNEX parents, the program founders, and members of the scholarship committee highlighting the strong community and lasting connections built through the initiative.
