FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Friday, January 13, 2023
Contact: PR@fapac.org

FAPAC Announces Theme for the 2023 Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

WASHINGTON, DC – The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC), premier organization representing Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) employees in the Federal and District of Columbia governments, is proud to announce the National 2023 theme for the observance of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May: "Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity". This year's theme is a continuation of the "Advancing Leaders" theme series which began in 2021. "Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity" further highlights FAPAC’s efforts in advancing leaders in the Federal and DC government.  

Opportunity is defined as “a set of circumstances that make it possible to do something”. Opportunity can be built, it can be accessed, it can be achieved, or it can be given. It has been the foundation of our great Nation and thus America is known to be the land of opportunity.  Each year, thousands of immigrants from all over the world come to the United States to gain access to these opportunities. No matter who you are, you can achieve anything in this country if you put your mind to it. To keep the Nation moving forward, the capable ones must lend a hand to those in need and provide an opportunity for them to advance, as well. 

The theme of Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity is especially paramount now as the public sector has demonstrated its ability to successfully be agile and pivot workplace processes to achieve organizational goals throughout and after the pandemic.  This dynamic has manifested noteworthy opportunities, which hinge on innovation, critical thinking, strategic leadership, and building great teams in furtherance of not only meeting, but exceeding department and agency goals in service to our Nation. 

Through providing advancement opportunities, organizations can reduce the barriers to professional progression and consequently reduce employee turnover and increase satisfaction. A successful organization invests in its employees’ professional development by providing opportunities that enable the employees to refine their skills and enhance their leadership abilities. 

FAPAC invites all employees of the Federal and DC governments, as well as veterans, to its 38^th National Leadership Training Program (NLTP) taking place at the Westin Long Beach Hotel in Long Beach, California, from May 8-11, 2023. The FAPAC NLTP is a reputable training program for public servants that delivers high-quality workshops, networking and mentorship opportunities, and practical strategies for personal and professional development correlated to the 2023 theme.  During this week-long training, FAPAC will also recognize public servants with the presentation of the Civilian Awards, Uniformed Services Awards, and a $5,000 Distinguished Public Service Scholarship. The NLTP will also host a free career exhibition and development programs for Current Students, Recent Graduates, and Veterans interested in public service. Visit FAPAC 2023 NLTP to learn more.

The FAPAC National Leadership Training Program (NLTP) aligns with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) requirements as an appropriate training for the Federal workforce in accordance with 5 U.S.C. Chapter 41 and 5 CFR 410.404. 

FAPAC is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that supports the interests of thousands of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander employees in the Federal and District of Columbia governments. Since 1985, FAPAC has encouraged the participation and advancement of AANHPIs in the government workforce and has been committed to its mission of promoting equal opportunity and cultural diversity for all AANHPIs in public service.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Wednesday, Dec 14, 2022
Contact: PR@fapac.org

FAPAC Announces the 2023 National Board of Operations

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC), the premier organization representing Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) employees in the Federal and District of Columbia governments, is pleased to announce the appointment of the Standing and Ad Hoc Committees which form the 2023 National Board of Operations. The FAPAC Board of Directors congratulates the dynamic Chairs and Co-Chairs volunteering to lead these Committees. Their efforts help shape and create meaningful training and networking opportunities for FAPAC’s members and Partners.

STANDING COMMITTEES

• Program Committee
• • Chair: Cailine Kim (VA)
  • Co-Chair: Miyoko Hikiji (VA)
• Public Relations Committee
• • Chair: Danielle Cloos (DHS)
  • Co-Chair: Christine Salcedo (VA)
• Nominations and Election Committee
• • Chair: Tat Shum (DOJ)
• Affirmative Employment Committee
• • Co-Chair: Albert Gayle (VA)
  • Co-Chair: Doris Thomas (VA)
  • Co-Chair: Evangeline Tennort (VA)
• Membership Committee
• • Chair: Thanh Trang (FAA)
• Chapter Committee
• • Chair: Ruiqing Pamboukian (FDA)
  • Co-Chair: Joy Reiff (FDA)
  • Co-Chair: Yoon Kong (FDA)
• Conference Committee
• • Chair: Katherine Toth
  • Co-Chair: Mary-Allen Lausman (VA)
• Constitution and Bylaws Committee
• • Chair: Olivia Adrian (DOI)
• Ethics Committee
• • Chair: William Graham (DOD)

TEMPORARY COMMITTES AND AD HOC COMMITTEES

• Awards Committee
• • Uniformed Services Award Co-Chair: Maj Seth Varayon (DOD)
  • Uniformed Services Award Co-Chair: Col Arnel David (DOD)
  • Civilian Award Co-Chair: Fred Cheng (USDA)
  • Civilian Award Co-Chair: Dr. Yulin Jia (USDA)
• Sponsorship Committee
• • Chair: CDR Creighton Chong (USCG)
  • Co-Chair: Son Le (NASA)
  • Co-Chair: Joseph LaVille (DOD)
  • Co-Chair: Charles Savary (DOJ)
  • Co-Chair: Shanti Perricone (DOJ)
• Community Outreach Committee
• • Chair: Tommy Estevan (DOJ)
  • Co-Chair: Tuan Nguyen (DOJ)
  • Co-Chair: Sandra Sherlock (DOJ)
  • Co-Chair: Thanh (Tara) Ma (DOJ)
• Newsletter Committee
• • Chair: Hoan Nguyen (CFPB)
  • Co-Chair: Trinh Scott
• Special events Committee
• • Chair: Ellesse Krall 
  • Co-Chair: Annabelle Flores (FAA)
  • Co-Chair: Kelly Chen (FAA)
• Webmaster Committee
• • Chair: Barbara Jackson (DOD)

Established in 1985, FAPAC is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that promotes equal opportunity and cultural diversity among the civilian and military AANHPI employees in the Federal and District of Columbia governments of all rank, including GS and SES employees and managers. FAPAC carries out its mission through activities in conjunction with the observance of the AANHPI Heritage Month, held during the month of May each year, and through its education, Career Development Mentoring program and Military and Civilian Awards. For more information, please visit www.fapac.org

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders will hold a virtual, two-day meeting on December 5 and December 6, 2022, to discuss full and draft subcommittee recommendations for submission to President Biden.

Co-chaired by Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra and United States Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai, the 25-member Commission complements the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (WHIAANHPI), both of which were established by the President in May 2021. For more information CLICK HERE to view the agenda.

CLICK HERE to RSVP and attend VIRTUALLY

On July 5, 2022, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. awarded the Medal of Honor to four U.S. Army Soldiers who fought in the Vietnam War:  Staff Sergeant Edward N. Kaneshiro (posthumous), Specialist Five Dwight W. Birdwell, Specialist Five Dennis M. Fujii, and retired Major John J. Duffy.

CLICK HERE for the full White House Statement and Release.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Wednesday, May 4, 2022
Contact: PR@fapac.org

Remembering Secretary Norman Mineta

WASHINGTON, D.C. –  The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC) is saddened to hear of the passing of our beloved friend, former USDOT Secretary Norman Mineta.  He was a friend of many and a devotee to the entire AANHPI community.  He touched people’s heart with his warm handshakes and gentle interactions.  He inspired us with his legacy and words of wisdom.  He was a veteran and a trailblazer. He is a legendary hero.  Secretary Mineta broke racial barriers for Asian Americans and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islanders throughout his notable public service. Coincidently, he passed in the AANHPI Heritage Month of May during the Public Service Recognition Week.

In honor of Secretary Mineta, FAPAC awards the Distinguished Public Service Scholarship, on a rotational basis, to AANHPI students who are interested in public service, exhibit academic excellence, and demonstrate a continuous effort to foster diversity and inclusion in AANHPI communities.  Secretary Mineta was the first Asian American to serve in two Cabinet positions, one as the Secretary of Commerce and the other as the Secretary of Transportation.  He is also the first in U.S. history to have served in both the Democratic and the Republican administrations. His dedication and relentless efforts in public service have opened doors for many others. 

As he rests in peace, his legend lives on.

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/04/29/a-proclamation-on-asian-american-native-hawaiian-and-pacific-islander-heritage-month-2022/ 

Why Asian Pacific American Heritage is celebrated in May : NPR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Thursday, April 14, 2022
Contact: PR@fapac.org

FAPAC Announces the 2022 FAPAC Award Recipients

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC), the premier organization representing Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) employees in the Federal and District of Columbia governments, is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2022 FAPAC awards and the Distinguished Public Service Scholarship. These awards recognize civilians and military service members who have made significant contributions to the advancement and promotion of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs).

The FAPAC Awards include the Uniformed Services, Civilian, and Distinguished Public Service Scholarship. The 2022 Honorees are:

UNIFORMED SERVICES AWARDS

U.S. Army                                                                

Major Seth Varayon

U.S. Navy                         

Petty Officer First Class Jack Chan

U.S. Air Force                   

Lieutenant Colonel Charlynne McGinnis                        

Master Sergeant Monica Diaz De Lope-Diaz

U.S. Air Force Reserves   

Major Sadia Ali Heil

Space Force                       

Captain Calvin Suratos

U. S. Coast Guard             

Lieutenant (O3) Maria Villanueva

Public Health Service Commissioned Corps

Commander Jerry Zee

NOAA Commissioned Officers Corps          

Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Luke Evancoe

CIVILIAN AWARDS

Outstanding Individual Leadership: Individual who has shown bold leadership and innovative ways in promoting Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), Affirmative Action, and Diversity. The 2022 Honorees with the following categories are

GS  1 - 12        Ms. Marie Kopka, (USACE)

GS 13 - 15       Mr. Yong-il Yi, (NASA)

SES                 Mr. David Omura, (VA)

Excellence in Individual Achievement:  Individual who has shown the greatest contribution toward the AAPI representation at all levels as compared to the total AAPI population. The 2022 Honorees with the following categories are

GS  1 -12         Ms. Laura Wood, (VA)

GS 13 -15        Ms. Vivian Cao, (USACE)

SES                 Mr. Ernest Moy, (VA)

Diversity Excellence:  Individual who has shown a remarkable contribution towards diversity and inclusion through collaboration and against all odds. The 2022 Honorees with the following categories are

GS  1 -12         Christine Salcedo, (VA)

GS 13 -15        Ms. Jihee Suh, (DOJ)

DISTINGUISHED PUBLIC SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP AWARD

Ms. Chloe Majzel, Michigan State University

Congratulations to this year’s Awardees: Uniformed Services, Civilian, and Distinguished Public Service Scholarship. FAPAC deeply appreciates the dedication and service of these individuals to our country and to the AAPIs community. Their leadership and contributions make our government and communities a better and more equitable place to serve. 

These awards will be presented at the 37^th National Leadership Training Program to be held virtually on Wednesday, May 11, 2022 and Thursday, May 12, 2022. 

More details about the FAPAC Awards and descriptions of the honorees are available at fapac.org/awards.

FAPAC is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that promotes equal opportunity and cultural diversity for AAPIs within the Federal and District of Columbia governments. Since 1985, FAPAC has encouraged the participation and advancement of AAPIs in the government workforce.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 01/03/2022 
Contact: PR@fapac.org

WASHINGTON, DC – The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC), the premier organization representing Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) employees in the Federal and District of Columbia governments, is proud to announce the theme for the observance of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May 2022: "Advancing Leaders Through Collaboration". This year's theme is a continuation of the "Advancing Leaders" theme series which began in 2021. In 2022, "Advancing Leaders Through Collaboration" further highlights FAPAC’s efforts in advancing leaders in the Federal and DC governments.  

Collaboration involves two or more individuals, groups or organizations actively working together to accomplish a task or achieve a goal. Collaboration at its core, requires leadership. Collaboration improves team dynamics, enhances problem solving leading to increased innovation, process efficiency, improved communication, and ultimately overall success. 

Collaboration across federal agencies in making decisions supporting and advancing leaders is essential to developing and retaining key talent at the leadership level. It also allows agencies to cultivate a sense of unity as they set and maintain a set of core values and goals for federal leadership staff. Embracing collaboration to advance the most promising individuals to leadership and management positions also demonstrates to all federal employees that they too should embrace collaboration within and across their subset of departments.

Organizations that are led by leaders who have been supported and advanced through collaboration foster transparency. This transparency allows for a culture of openness and trust, which further fosters diversity and inclusion, a variety of opinions and a robust discussion of ideas and approaches, which are all the foundational traits of a thriving organization that is at the forefront of leading change.

In addition to retaining the most talented leaders in the federal government and creating an environment of transparency, this type of collaboration across agencies sparks innovation in organizations due to the diversity of creative ideas and openness for dialogue and understanding.

FAPAC invites all employees of the Federal and DC governments, as well as veterans, to the 37th National Leadership Training Program (NLTP) taking place at the National Conference Center in Leesburg, Virginia from May 9-13, 2022. The FAPAC NLTP is a reputable training program for public servants that delivers high-quality workshops, networking opportunities, and practical strategies for personal and professional development as it relates to the 2022 theme.  During this week-long training, FAPAC will also recognize public servants with the presentation of the Civilian Awards, Uniformed Services Awards, and a $5,000 Distinguished Public Service Scholarship Award. The NLTP will host a free career exhibition and development programs for Current Students, Recent Graduates, and Veterans interested in public service. 

The FAPAC National Leadership Training Program (NLTP) aligns with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) requirements as an appropriate training for the Federal workforce in accordance with 5 U.S.C. Chapter 41 and 5 CFR 410.404. 

FAPAC is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that supports the interests of  AANHPI employees in the Federal and District of Columbia governments. Since 1985, FAPAC has been committed to its mission of promoting equal opportunity and cultural diversity for Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders in public service. FAPAC encourages the participation and advancement of AANHPIs in the government workforce.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Thursday, April 15, 2021
Contact: PR@fapac.org

FAPAC Announces the 2021 FAPAC Award Recipients

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC), the premier organization representing Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) employees in the Federal and District of Columbia governments, is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2021 FAPAC awards and the distinguished public service scholarship. These awards recognize civilians and military service members who have made significant contributions to the advancement and promotion of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs).

The FAPAC Awards include the Uniformed Services, Civilian, and Distinguished Public Service Scholarship Awards.

The 2021 Honorees are:

UNIFORMED SERVICES AWARDS

U.S. Army
U.S. Marine Corps
U.S. Navy
U.S. Air Force
U. S. Coast Guard
Public Health Service Commissioned Corps

CIVILIAN AWARDS

Outstanding Individual Leadership: Individual who has shown bold leadership and innovative ways in promoting Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), Affirmative Action, and Diversity.

Excellence in Individual Achievement:  Individual who has shown the greatest contribution toward the AAPI representation at all levels as compared to the total AAPI population.

Diversity Excellence:  Individual who has shown a remarkable contribution towards diversity and inclusion through collaboration and against all odds.

DISTINGUISHED PUBLIC SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP AWARD

Congratulations to this year’s Uniformed Services Awards, Civilian Awards, and Distinguished Public Service Scholarship honorees. FAPAC deeply appreciates the dedication and service of these individuals to our country and to the AAPI community. Their leadership and contributions make our government and communities a better and more equitable place to serve. 

The awards will be presented at the 36^th National Leadership Training Program to be held virtually on May 26 and May 27, 2021.  The health and safety of all FAPAC members and supporters remains our top priority and due to the current COVID-19 situation, the 2021 NLTP is going to be all virtual.

More details about the FAPAC Awards and descriptions of the honorees are available at fapac.org/awards.

FAPAC is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that promotes equal opportunity and cultural diversity for AAPIs within the Federal and District of Columbia governments. Since 1985, FAPAC has encouraged the participation and advancement of AAPIs in the government workforce.