To strengthen Laney College’s relationships with local Asian & Pacific Islander business and community-based organizations, Dr. Rudy Besikof hosted two virtual meet and greet sessions on January 13 and 14. Special thanks to community leaders Tomoko Ha (TKO Consulting) and Jessica Li (Justice and Logic LLC), who gave their time as well as their incredible talent and wisdom toward hosting these two virtual receptions introduce Dr. Besikof to the community and discuss not only needs but ways to come together and collaborate.

(pictured: Tomoko Ha (left) and Jessica Li (right))

The first of the two evenings was devoted to a conversation with the API Business Community, while the second was an opportunity to connect with many community leaders whose nonprofit and other service organizations provide invaluable support to Oakland. Also attending and sharing information about Laney College’s programs and services for students were Vice Presidents Mark Fields and Vicki Ferguson, in addition to Dr. David Lee, who shared information about the $1.5 million AANAPISI grant awarded to the College last year.

In addition to appreciating Ms. Ha and Ms. Li, special thanks go to APASS Director, Dr. David Lee, and Ms. Arlene Lontoc, for supporting this effort and representing Laney College beside President Besikof. This is just the beginning to a concerted effort to expand opportunities for the Asian community at Laney College, and Step #1 of Rudy’s efforts to connect with the many communities that Laney serves.

This article is an excerpt from the President’s Report, written by Dr. Rudy Besikof, Laney College President, that was presented to the PCCD Board of Trustees during their regular meeting on Tuesday, January 19, 2021.