This panel will explore the critical role of Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions (AANAPISIs) in advancing educational equity and student success through research, practice, and policy. Featuring insights from educational researchers, practitioners, and policy advocates, the discussion will highlight how AANAPISIs elevate the voices and experiences of AANHPI students and communities.

• Khydeeja Alam is the first South Asian woman to serve as Executive Director of the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs (CAPIAA).
• Julie Chen became the fourth chancellor of UMass Lowell in 2022, making history as the university’s first Asian American, second woman, and first LGBTQ+ leader.
• Dr. Patricia Akemi Neilson currently serves as the Director of AANAPISI Initiatives for Asian Pacific Americans in Higher Education (APAHE), a national organization.
• Karthick Ramakrishnan has served in leadership roles that span academia, government, public policy, and philanthropy.
• Mike Hoa Nguyen, PhD (he/him) is associate professor of education in the School of Education and Information Studies