On this special evening, we will honor our legacy and recognize the contributions of four exceptional Asian Pacific Islander (API) state worker leaders.
View the APSEA Gala Program Book
- TICKETS: Eventbrite
- WHEN: Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 6:00pm
- WHERE: Asian Pearl Restaurant, 6821 Stockton Blvd #165, Sacramento, CA 95823
- KEYNOTE SPEAKER: James Kahue (Delivered by his son, Chris Kahue)
Together with fellow APSEA members, VIPs, elected officials, and API community leaders, we will celebrate their achievements as they are presented with the Excellence in State Leadership Award.
- Jacqui Nguyen – APSEA 50th Gala Event Chair
- Karen Lookingbill – APSEA 50th Gala Sponsorship Chair with Helen Fong and Joy Gonzales-Cabatic
- Jordan Aquino – APSEA 50th Gala VIP Chair
- Benny Gee – APSEA 50th Gala Awardee Chair (Committee Letter)
- Oliver Chu – APSEA 50th Gala Awardee Co-chair (Committee Letter)
- Dean Lan – APSEA 50th Gala Presidents’ Circle Chair
Fiona Ma, CA State Treasurer | Assemblymember Mike Fong, District 49 | Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen, District 10 | Erica Pan, M.D., CDPH
Awards Presenters
Table Sponsors
- APSEA Foundation
- Asian Resources Inc.
- Cabatic Family
- California Asian Chamber of Commerce
- Dean Lan
- George Akiyama
- Grace Koch
- Jean Chong
- Jordan Aquino
- My Sister’s House
- Pattie Fong & Currents Newspaper
- Sacramento Chinese of IndoChina Friendship Association
- Stephenson Loveson
- Yating Campbell
- Yusi Lookingbill Family
APSEA began as a vision shared by a small group of Asian and Pacific Islanders in California State government. Their goal was to combat discrimination, improve hiring, and expand career opportunities. Through the dedication of our founders and supporters, we continue to advance careers, promote diversity, and advocate for the API community.
This momentous occasion is not only a celebration, but also a chance to drive change. Your financial sponsorship supports our core programs that empower our members to lead in California’s government and communities
Pipeline Building Programs focus on expanding outreach to inspire younger generations, engage underserved communities, and strengthen partnerships with API organizations to promote careers in state service.
Professional Development Programs provide leadership training, networking opportunities, and mentorship to support upward mobility and long-term career growth.
EEO and DEI Advocacy efforts would allow us to collaborate with state employee associations and API community groups to advance equal opportunities, foster inclusivity, and empower APIs in state government roles.
Since our founding in 1975, APSEA has worked tirelessly to make a difference. As we mark 50 years, we remain steadfast in our commitment to advancing our mission and driving meaningful change. Your generosity will help us continue this vital work. We would be honored to have your support in making this gala—and our ongoing efforts—a success.
Asian Resources Inc. | California Asian Chamber of Commerce | My Sister’s House | Yusi Lookingbill Family | Cabatic Family | Aquino Family | Grace Koch | Jean Chong | Dean Lan | Stephenson Loveson | East Lawn | ACC Senior Services | Currents Newspaper | Chinese American Council Of Sacramento – CACS | Avatar IT Solutions