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Our executive director, Thu Nguyen, is turning 30 today! As a surprise, we’ve collected quotes from our Executive Council, interns, and staff to celebrate her.
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Kendall Kosai: "From a kid fresh out of Rice to Executive Director, you have shown incredible growth and poise to meet the moment - we are so incredibly proud of you. Thank you, Thu, for all that you have done for our community yesterday, today, and tomorrow!"
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Executive Council: “Wishing Thu the happiest of birthdays! Your vision, leadership, and dedication light the way for our community every day, reminding us to find joy in life through family, food, fashion, and the connections we share. While our elders paved the way, you are forging your own path in advocating for Asian Americans and Pacific Islander civil rights and social justice, leading our 50+ year old organization with passion, intention, conviction, and creativity. It’s inspiring to see a bright and just future for our communities with you at the helm, and to be part of the journey you are shaping with such heart and purpose.”
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2025 Summer Interns: “Thank you for everything, Thu! We hope your birthday is filled with love, joy, and, of course, GOOD FOOD! You are a leader in every sense of the word, and watching you lead with love, resilience, and unwavering dedication to our community is truly inspiring. It’s been amazing serving the communities we love alongside you, and we are so grateful our paths have crossed. The best thing we’ve learned from you is to approach everything and everyone with love, and seeing you live by this principle every day reminds us what true leadership looks like.
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OCA Staff: “Happy Birthday, Thu! You’ve shown us what true humility, resilience, and compassion look like in a leader. Your warmth makes OCA feel like home, and your vision and conviction inspire our faith in a just and joyful future for all. You are a true champion for staff, living out the very ethos you believe in, and the positive culture you’ve instilled in our workplace is a testament to your visionary leadership. You’ve already accomplished so much before even turning 30—an inspiration to us all. It’s an honor to learn from you, and we’re so proud to celebrate you today!”
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Thu is dedicating her birthday month to raise $30,000 for our end-of-year campaign, and we hope that you can help her reach her goal.
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This idea was inspired by APIAVote, who did something similar for their leader’s birthday.
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