May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in the United States. It is a month when many government agencies and many corporate employers recognize the contributions of Asian Americans.
Many AAPI’s have contributed tremendously to business, academics, government, community service, arts and entertainment in North America. NAAAP has honored 31 such leaders in our NAAAP 100 program. Some individuals include:
- The Honorable Norman Mineta, Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and U.S. Secretary of Commerce
- Mr. Richard Lui, News Anchor, MSNBC and NBC News
- Mr. I.M. Pei, architect and founder, Pei Cobb Freed and Partners
- Dr. Doris Ching, Vice President of Student Affairs, University of Hawaii
- The Honorable Vivienne Poy, Senator of Canada, author, entrepreneur, fashion designer
I have been privileged to serve as the President & CEO of NAAAP, the premier leadership organization for Asian professionals for more than a year. In this role, I have met everyday heroes, including my colleagues on NAAAP national administration team, local NAAAP chapters, and the NAAAP National Board. They accomplish truly amazing individual and collective feats, as we are all volunteers with a commitment to leadership, accountability, and excellence. On behalf of NAAAP, I salute our organization’s contributions.
Various local NAAAP chapters will be observing AAPI Heritage Month in their own ways, with career development, networking, and social events. I encourage you to visit your local chapter to not only participate but to get involved.
NAAAP will continue to honor AAPI leaders well after May as we head to Toronto, Canada, for the 2013 NAAAP International Convention, Career Fair and Diversity Expo on August 8-10, 2013.