To commemorate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Per Scholas hosted an interactive and informative Inclusion by Intention session. Inclusion by Intention, launched in 2018, is a quarterly organization-wide initiative that aims to provide a safe, inclusive space for staff to discuss ongoing issues around race and social justice. A powerful, open panel discussion led by both national and local team leaders to envision ways the organization can best equip staff with the appropriate education, resources, and training needed to support students, alumni, and one another.
We heard from our Senior Vice President of Development, Evelyn Chen, who opened our eyes to the Model Minority Myth, while highlighting stereotypes and barriers our AAPI colleagues face.
Our President and CEO, Plinio Ayala, featured the story of Jimmy Nguyen, a Per Scholas Dallas graduate, in an organization-wide email. Jimmy was able to gain knowledge and skills in technology through Per Scholas and gained the confidence to start a new career in tech. You can learn more about Jimmy's experience and path to his Client Service Help Desk role for Charles Schwab in his feature video.
To further honor the community this month, we encourage you to learn more about the Model Minority Myth and other cultural history to carry more understanding and knowledge beyond Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.