Dr. Michael Chang, former mayor of Cupertino and the chairman of the Asian American Studies Department, and Dr. Mae Lee, the associate director of APALI, gathered some of the most influential leaders of the Asian community to discuss the finances for APALI.

APALI, the Asian Pacific American Leadership Institute, is a public service organization that teaches underrepresented minorities the skills needed to become civic leaders in their communities.

Allan Liu, resident of the Robert Chang Foundations, and Dr. Hsing Kung, chairman of the APALI board, were presented with the stories and experiences of former APALI students, ranging from over 5 years.

APALI was given a large donation from the Robert Chang Foundation. The contribution was lowered from $40,000 to $20,000 but APALI wanted to convince the Foundation to leave their funding as it was. Evan Low, 2002 graduate, shared how APALI planted the seeds that grew into what is now his political career commitment.

On Nov. 8, he was elected into the city council of Campbell. “If it wasn’t for APALI, I don’t know if I would even run for office,” said Low.

“I’ve taken intercultural studies classes in both UC Berkeley and San Francisco State and APALI is easily one of the best classes I have taken,” said Ethan Lee, former 2006 APALI intern.

Each student contributed their personal experiences. They all told how APALI shaped their lives for the rest of their lives. Anthony Lin, Former De Anza and APALI student, is now working with Congresswoman Anna G. Eshoo as a staff assistant.

“I don’t need them [APALI students and friends] to stand next to me because I know they already will,” said Lin. Alerie Flandez, Former APALI intern of 2006, had teary eyes as she recalled her happy memories and experiences with APALI.

“APALI [has been] a life changing experience,” said Flandez.

Despite the uncertainty, Dr. Chang remains positive about the outcome. He says that he is optimistic and APALI will continue whether or not they get the funds.

After the presentation Liu told the students that he genuinely supported what APALI was doing for its community.

He will meet with the board of the foundation in hopes they will approve the full donation.