ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Oscar Wong, the late founder of Highland Brewing Company renowned as the “Godfather of Asheville craft beer,” was memorialized with a garden at the University of North Carolina Asheville this week.
The Oscar Wong Memorial Garden, located outside of the McCullough Institute in Karpen Hall, was dedicated to the Highland Brewing founder in a ceremony on Thursday, April 23.
The garden “provides a space for reflection and gathering, recognizing Wong’s enduring connection to the University and his impact on Western North Carolina,” UNC Asheville wrote in a press release.
Wong, born to Chinese immigrants and raised in Jamaica, studied engineering at the University of Notre Dame and made a career in nuclear engineering. Wong founded Highland Brewing in 1994, which marked Asheville’s first craft brewery since the days of Prohibition, setting “Beer City” on its way to brewery fame. Wong passed away on May 25, 2025 at the age of 84.
During the commemoration of the garden, several UNC Asheville leaders shared their memories of Wong, according to the press release.
“Oscar Wong believed deeply in the power of education and community,” said UNC Asheville Chancellor Kimberly van Noort. “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.”
“Oscar was a valued member of the Board of Trustees and a wonderful colleague,” said Roger Aiken, chair of the UNC Asheville Board of Trustees. “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,” said Shannon Earle, vice chancellor for University Advancement. “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.”
For more about Wong, visit www.highlandbrewing.com/oscarwong.