Two UMass Amherst faculty members have recently been appointed to the Asian American and Pacific Islanders Commission (AAPIC), a statewide body whose purpose is to enhance opportunity for Asian Americans, especially those newly arrived in the country. Richard T. Chu, professor of history, was appointed by State Treasurer Deborah Goldberg in February and Leo. L. Hwang, assistant academic dean in the College of Natural Sciences, was appointed by State Auditor Suzanne M. Bump in January.
Established on Oct. 29, 2006, the Massachusetts Asian American Commission (AAC) was a permanent statewide body dedicated to advocating for Asian Americans. With the name change (from Asian American Commission to Asian American and Pacific Islanders Commission), the Commission’s goal is to recognize and highlight the vital contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the social, cultural, economic and political life of the Commonwealth; to identify and address the needs and challenges facing residents of Asian and Pacific Islander ancestry; and to promote the well-being of this dynamic and diverse community, thereby advancing the interests of all who call Massachusetts home.
Of Chu’s appointment, Goldberg said, “I am pleased to appoint Dr. Chu to the Asian American and Pacific Island Commission. I am confident he will advance the goals of the commission and raise awareness for equity, justice, and opportunity for the AAPIC community.”
On Hwang’s appointment, Bump said, “I am thrilled to appoint Leo L. Hwang to serve on the Asian American and Pacific Islanders Commission. Leo has a storied career in higher education and is dedicated to bettering public life for all residents. I know Leo will do incredible work in representing the AAPI community.”