Ellen Cheung's journey from the bustling streets of Hong Kong to the serene vineyards of California is one of perseverance and determination. Growing up in a society marked by colonial rule, Ellen's early years were shaped by a sense of injustice and a longing for a different educational path.

 

In Hong Kong, where British children enjoyed privileges denied to their Chinese counterparts, Ellen felt the sting of inequality. Determined to chart her own course, she made the bold decision to pursue her college education in America, specifically California, the land of opportunity.

 

But the path to success was not easy. Coming from a family of modest means, Ellen had to work two jobs to pay for her tuition and living expenses. Despite the challenges, she remained steadfast in her pursuit of knowledge, eventually earning a doctorate degree in Medicinal Chemistry from the prestigious University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).

 

Following post-doctoral training at the National Institute of Health, Ellen embarked on a career in the biopharmaceutical industry, where she made significant contributions to the field of biotechnology engineered drugs. Rising through the ranks from Principal Scientist to Senior Director, Ellen's journey was marked by resilience and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

 

Alongside her professional achievements was her companion, Lorin Roskos, Chief Scientific Officer of Amador Bioscience, Inc. here in Pleasanton.  For over three decades, they navigated the miles apart and highs and lows of life, their partnership a source of strength and support. “Our specialty fields overlap somewhat so our career paths are similar. At times, for employment we lived in separate cities, separate states and a lot of flying throughout the years,” she shared.  

 

Ellen and Lorin have lived in Ruby Hill for 24 years always with some sort of dog or two. Right now, they have a Jack Russell and a Siberian Husky. All of them enjoy walking on the golf course and nearby hiking trails. “My favorite thing about living here is that it is quiet and peaceful living among the vineyards,” Ellen said and added that she loves the diversity of cultures among the community.

 

In retirement, Ellen loves gardening and has dabbled in arts and crafts, first starting out with clay, then glass (stained and fused glass), and now precious metals. With a keen eye for craftsmanship and a passion for creativity, Ellen completed training as a jewelry technician at the Revere Academy of Jewelry Art in San Francisco.  “I like to think that the jewelry pieces I make will last longer than I do,” she commented.

 

Looking ahead, Ellen and Lorin eagerly anticipate new adventures, including a winter trip to introduce their husky to the wonders of snow. As they embrace the journey ahead, they do so with hearts full of gratitude for the opportunities that brought them to California and the love that sustains them each day.

 

In Ellen's journey, we find inspiration to pursue our dreams with unwavering determination. Her story is a reminder that all things are possible with perseverance and resilience.