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.

WASHINGTON, DC – The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC), a premier organization representing Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) employees in the Federal and District of Columbia governments, hereby published the following statement:

Press Release - FAPAC Statement on Violence and Discrimination Against AAPI_March 22 2021.pdf

Crises such as the current pandemic can bring out the best and worst in people. Since the global pandemic began, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) have been singled out and subjected to racism, harassment, and xenophobia around the world. As a nation, we have witnessed increased violence and discrimination in an alarming rate in recent years, especially against AAPI. Though violence against AAPI descent has become magnified, this pattern of targeted discrimination has existed for centuries. The countless stories and examples shared in today’s news and on social media are products of systemic injustices which unnecessarily and unfairly target the AAPI community.

The FAPAC Leadership acknowledges the feelings, pain, and trauma the recent surge of violence has caused the AAPI community and all others who abhor violence. FAPAC extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of all the victims of violence and discrimination. As one of the largest nonprofit AAPI organizations, FAPAC values dignity, respect, diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunity for all people; we stand in solidarity against any acts of harassment, racism and violence perpetuated in the workplace, the AAPI community, and against all Americans regardless of their background in the United States.

FAPAC has Chapters across the entire country and U.S. territories including American Samoa, and we embrace and celebrate the vast diversity of our nation. American culture is unique and beautiful because it is comprised of people with many different cultures of rich and varied backgrounds. AAPI culture is American culture; AAPI communities are American communities. By uplifting the AAPI community, FAPAC uplifts all Americans in their pursuit of health, happiness, security, and growth for our beloved country and its citizens. Extending dignity, respect, equity and fairness to all is at the foundation of this organization as trusted partners to the American people.

FAPAC is an organization that promotes equal opportunity and cultural diversity for AAPIs within the Federal and District of Columbia governments. Each of us has the power and responsibility to promote and advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in our workplace and our communities. Each of us should take responsibility to educate and remind one another to be conscious and respectful of others so that we can be successful together.

To learn more about FAPAC’s mission, goals, and objectives, please go to www.fapac.org.

WASHINGTON, DC – 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 proud to announce the theme for the observance of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May 2021: Advancing Leaders Through Purpose-Driven Service. This year's theme is the start of the new theme series for 2021-2024 highlighting FAPAC’s efforts in “Advancing Leaders”.  

Purpose-driven service creates a positive culture of intimacy, empowers leaders who believe in leading with values, offers frequent encouragement and feedback, and puts employees first.

Employees and leaders who are driven by purpose understand they can make a difference by serving others more than themselves. They are focused on a bigger mission to make the world a better place and to create a brighter future for everyone.  When purpose and passion are combined with core organizational values, the exponential impact is powerful for the entire community.

Purpose-driven organizations are ambitious, attract the best minds and talent, inspire innovation, make fast and effective decisions, are trusted, and have strong engagement and loyalty from employees and stakeholders. Organizations that value purpose-driven service operate with integrity and courage.

The FAPAC invites all employees of the Federal and DC governments, including the military, to its 36th Virtual National Leadership Training Program (NLTP) on May 25-27, 2021. 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 2021 theme.  During this three-day 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 host a free career exhibition and development programs for Current Students, Recent Graduates, and Veterans interested in public service. Visit www.fapac.org/NLTP to learn more.

The FAPAC 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 the supports the interests of over AAPI 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 and Pacific Islanders in public service. FAPAC encourages the participation and advancement of AAPIs in the government workforce. 

UNIFORMED SERVICES AWARDS

CIVILIAN AWARDS

Outstanding Individual Leadership

Excellence in Individual Achievement

Diversity Excellence

DISTINGUISHED PUBLIC SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP AWARD

“The winners of the 2020 FAPAC Awards have distinguished themselves by promoting the tenets of the U.S. Constitution, civil and human rights, equal opportunity, human relations, and public service,” said FAPAC President Olivia Adrian. “These men and women were selected for their exceptional leadership in advancing the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.”

FAPAC has traditionally presented the FAPAC Awards during the annual National Leadership Training Program (NLTP) each May. Due to the current coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, the 2020 NLTP has been cancelled. The health and safety of all FAPAC Members and supporters remains our top priority and the decision to cancel this year’s NLTP did not come lightly. An in-person ceremony may be determined at a later date in accordance with guidance from federal and local officials.

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.

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.

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Each year in May, the Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC) hosts the National Leadership Training Program (NLTP) to train government employees in leadership, diversity, and inclusion and to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. We regret to inform you that the 2020 NLTP on May 11-14, 2020 is cancelled due to the increasing risks associated with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

As much as FAPAC would like to host the NLTP again, it is no longer possible under the current circumstances. The health and safety of all FAPAC Members, Attendees and Sponsors remains our top priority and the decision to cancel this year’s NLTP did not come lightly. Attendees who have registered for the NLTP have been notified of the cancellation and next steps. 

FAPAC will continue other programming including the Career Development Mentoring Program, FAPAC Awards, 35th Anniversary Celebration, and the upcoming elections for the FAPAC National Board of Directors. Sign up for FAPAC’s mailing list or become a Member to receive the latest news and program updates.

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: Thursday, March 12, 2020
Contact: pr@fapac.org

WASHINGTON, DC - The safety and well-being of FAPAC’s members, partners, and constituents are our uncompromising priority. Over the past few weeks, we have been monitoring the developing concerns related to COVID-19 (coronavirus) and how it will affect our 2020 programs. We recognize this is a particularly stressful time for many and that the rapidly changing nature of this situation can be disruptive to our daily lives. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to reassure the public that the health risk to citizens remains low. At this time, all FAPAC activities will continue as planned, unless otherwise communicated by FAPAC. 

What FAPAC is Doing:

• We are monitoring official guidance from the CDC and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) pertaining to large group events.
• We are staying in close communication with vendors regarding the National Leadership Training Program (NLTP) on May 11-14, 2020 in Leesburg, VA. More details will be announced closer to the NLTP (by April 17, 2020) as COVID-19 is a rapidly changing situation.
• We are reminding the FAPAC community to follow CDC guidance to prevent the spread of germs.

What You Can Do:

• Follow your agency’s policies regarding COVID-19
• Do not attend public events if you are feeling ill.
• Cover that cough! Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water throughout the day for at least 20 seconds. 
• Routinely clean frequently touched surfaces (like your cellphone).
• Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands

Again, your safety and well-being is FAPAC’s utmost priority so we can continue fulfilling our mission to provide advancement opportunities for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in public service. We’ll continue to monitor the situation and share updates with you as necessary.

Please contact pr@fapac.org if you have any questions or need assistance finding resources as we all work to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We welcome your feedback and appreciate your understanding of the seriousness of this situation.

COVID-19 Resources:

• CDC Coronavirus Disease 2019 
• OPM Coronavirus Disease 2019
• OPM Pandemic Frequently Asked Questions
• OPM Questions & Answers on Human Resources Flexibilities and Authorities for COVID-19 (March 7, 2020)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact pr@fapac.org

FAPAC Announces Theme for 2020 Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

WASHINGTON, DC – 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 proud to announce the theme for the observance of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May 2020: Unite Our Nation by Empowering Equality. This year’s theme is the culmination of our 2017-2020 “Unite” series and focuses on diversity, inclusion, and leadership to advance the AAPI community.

AAPI’s are the fastest-growing racial group in America and one that is often under- and mis-represented. For the 2020 AAPI Heritage Month theme, FAPAC will focus on empowerment as a means to increase representation in the public, private, and non-profit sectors and to work toward a unified voice in the AAPI community and our country. This year, FAPAC aims to demystify the Asian stereotypes of a docile and silent attitude to empower AAPIs to have a louder voice and tell our own narratives in the public discourse.

FAPAC invites all employees of the Federal and DC governments, including the military, to the 35th National Leadership Training Program (NLTP) - a reputable training opportunity for public servants. The 35th NLTP will be held at the National Conference Center in Leesburg, VA on May 11-14, 2020 and is a celebration of AAPI Heritage Month each May. The NLTP delivers high-quality training, networking opportunities, and practical strategies for personal and professional development as it relates to the 2020 theme.

During this three-day 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 host a free career exhibition and development programs for Current Students, Recent Graduates, and Veterans interested in public service. Visit www.fapac.org/NLTP to learn more.

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FAPAC is a non-profit, non-partisan organization supports the interests of over AAPI 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 and Pacific Islanders in public service. FAPAC encourages the participation and advancement of AAPIs in the government workforce.