What's Happening at Executive Development Institute (EDI) - Join in the fun with a purpose!

Pham & Liu Nominated for APA Community Roast Innovator Award

2011-04-10T18:47:00.000-07:00

Two of EDI’s own have been nominated for the APA Community Roast Innovator Award. They are Julie Pham, Class of 2010 and Marian Liu, Class of 2009 and both active contributors to NAAAP (see youtube clip).

Portlander's official visit to Tokyo disrupted by shocks and aftershocks

2011-03-15T16:30:00.000-07:00

By Richard Reed, Oregonian --

A bus carrying Portlander Mari Watanabe shook violently in a Tokyo parking lot as shock waves from Friday's deadly earthquake rocked Japan.

Watanabe, visiting the city with a Japanese-American delegation, looked across the parking lot of the Hotel New Otani Tokyo, where the group had arrived for a meeting.

"Our bus was rocking and rolling," Watanabe said. "We could see the other buses in the parking lot shaking. People were pouring out of the hotel.

"I've been in some California earthquakes, and this one was strong. And then the fact that it lasted so long."

Watanabe happened to be in Japan's capital city for the massive, historic quake. She spoke by phone early Saturday, Japan time, as aftershocks continued to shake the Tokyo Prince Hotel where she was staying on the 10th floor.

Her overriding impression, as she drifted in and out of sleep in the swaying tower, was of the strength of Japanese engineering, which prevented her hotel and surrounding structures from toppling. She couldn't help thinking that if an 8.9-strength quake hit the United States, the devastation would be far worse.

Watanabe, 52, is executive director of the Oregon Nikkei Endowment, which built Portland's Japanese American Historical Plaza and the Nikkei Legacy Center, a history museum the organization operates in Portland.

The granddaughter of Japanese immigrants, Watanabe was chosen to join a delegation of 13 Japanese-Americans sponsored by the U.S.-Japan Council to spend a week meeting with officials and others in Japan. The point was to learn more about Japan and to discuss ways of strengthening U.S.-Japan relations.

Delegation members, who include academics and businesspeople, were looking forward to meeting Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan Friday. Needless to say, that was canceled.

But in classic Japanese style, unruffled officials from the Japan Association of Corporate Executives greeted Watanabe's delegation at the New Otani Hotel, ushering them inside for their scheduled meeting. Soon after formal introductions, however, aftershocks disrupted the proceedings.

Hotel staff members told everyone to leave the building. The Japanese, and Japanese Americans, walked out into the hotel's garden, an oasis in the megalopolis of 28 million. They stood among manicured shrubs and trees near a sloping bridge over a pond, gazing upward.

"There was one of those window-washing baskets that was swinging back and forth," Watanabe said. "The ground was shaking."

"There's a new building being built a couple of blocks away. On top was a big crane."

The spectators could hear the crane creaking as it teetered above them.

"We were worried that the crane would fall over, but it never did," Watanabe said. "We were looking at the tall buildings and thinking, these are Japanese engineering marvels all around us. Glass didn't fly off. The buildings stayed up."

When the aftershocks passed, the group went back inside to continue the meeting. "The funny thing was, every time somebody said the word 'earthquake,' as a comment, it seemed like the floor would shake, because they were having so many aftershocks."

The shocks continued Friday as the delegation returned to their own central-Tokyo hotel and office workers, stranded after train service shut down, began long walks home.

View full sizeNHK TVIn this video image taken from Japan's NHK TV, an oil refinery burns in Ichihara, Chiba Prefecture Japan Friday.
"At first we were not allowed to go up the elevators," Watanabe said. "So some of the delegates actually walked the 10 flights to their rooms. But most of the rest of us just went to the bar and had drinks."

Group members, who got to meet Japan's newly appointed foreign minister earlier in their visit, expressed disappointment at missing the premier. "But he certainly had more important things to deal with than to meet us," Watanabe said.

She paused in her hotel room during the phone interview, getting her balance.

"Oh, good," Watanabe said. "Another aftershock. Here we go."

She paused.

"It's not too bad. Just a little one this time."

Shortly before the quake hit, Watanabe and her group had a meeting on the 24th or 26th floor of another hotel.

"I'm glad we had already done that," she said. "It would have been a lot more exciting if we had been way up there at the top."

Carrie Shiu Awarded Asian American Engineer of the Year

2011-03-15T16:28:00.000-07:00

Hi Starr and Vanna,

While I am still overwhelmed with the Asian American Engineer of the Year award I just received last
Saturday, I want to take the time to credit both of you for getting me where
I am today! As a result of attending EDI in 2009, I decided to embrace
"Change" in my career and took up the BAAPA president position. As a direct
result of that I got nominated for the AAEoY Award =)

Now during the award banquet I was to deliver a 90-second acceptance speech.
I had it all written down on a piece of paper but then I lost the paper! So
standing in front of the mic I got panic for a moment but then my
Vanna-memories kicked in. I was able to find the pairs of eyes in the
audience to focus on from all across the hall while reciting my speech. I
knew exactly how to stand, how to project my voice, and how to use hand
gestures all because of you, Vanna!

You have a proud EDI Alumni in me =D

Regards,
Carrie Shiu, PMP SCPM
BCA Airplane Product Development
Configuration & Engineering Analysis

EDI Announces First Featured Chef for Benefit Dinner "Inclusion Fusion"

2011-03-15T16:26:00.001-07:00

BELLEVUE, Wash., Feb. 22, 2011 – Executive Development Institute’s (EDI) announces Thoa Nguyen as a featured chef to create innovative fusion cooking for its annual benefit dinner and auction, "Inclusion Fusion."

Chef Thoa Nguyen was born in Saigon and raised in Cho Lon, the city's Chinatown district. She is the owner of three Seattle Asian restaurants: Chinoise Cafe in Madison Park; Thoa's Restaurant in Downtown Seattle; and Wabi Sabi Sushi Bar in Columbia City.

Nguyen introduced Seattle to the original Chinoise Cafe on Queen Anne in 1996. It quickly became a success and three more locations followed. Nguyen seeks to create personal interpretations of contemporary and classic Vietnamese dishes with Seattle diners.

EDI's 2011 benefit dinner and auction "Inclusion Fusion" will be held on May 20th at SODO Park (3200 1st Avenue South, Seattle). The dinner features fusion cooking from Hispanic and Asian cultures. EDI will engage several renowned chefs from the Pacific Northwest to create innovative dishes based on the original flavors of these enduring civilizations. Participation in Inclusion Fusion is open to the public and will allow EDI to continue to expand its programs in both content and diversity.

Sponsors for this benefit dinner include Prudential, KeyBank Foundation, State Farm Insurance, Weyerhaeuser, Boeing, Nordstrom, and Wells Fargo. Emcees for the event are Javier Palmera, Executive Producer, Univision and Marlee Ginter, anchor for KOMO. Laura Michalek, "Seattle's Fundraising Auctioneer," will be the featured auctioneer. Please register at www.ediorg.org or call 425.467.9365.

About Executive Development Institute

EDI delivers culturally tailored leadership programs that empower participants to leverage their cultural and diverse attributes for accelerated professional growth. The non-profit agency's mission is to build a community to meet the growing imperative for global leaders.

Its programs offer real-time leadership solutions to companies and organizations seeking leaders equipped with cross-cultural insights and business savvy to manage global strategies and to connect with diverse markets. It is the only Pacific Northwest non-profit agency offering ethnically-tailored leadership programs focused on leveraging cultural and diverse attributes of participants to develop their full potential as effective leaders.

EDI Honors Wayne with Special Recognition Award

2011-01-19T19:09:00.000-08:00

(Story from Northwest Asian Weekly "Names in the News" Dec. 18-24, 2010)

Wayne Nakamura, claims manager at State Farm Insurance, was presented with the Executive Development Institute (EDI)’s Special Recognition Award.

Since 1994, EDI has presented this award to a noteworthy individual and/or corporation who has contributed substantially to EDI and has a sincere commitment to their employees and to diversity.

Nakamura earned his bachelor’s degree in architecture at the University of Hawaii at Manao. He earned his master’s degree in public administration at the University of Washington. ♦

Thank you Vanna, Char, Colleen & Wayne!

2011-01-13T22:54:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
On January 9th, EDI hosted a reception to thank Vanna Novak, Char Grinolds, Wayne Nakamura, and Colleen Yamaguchi for serving as board members for two years. The reception was held at Starr's home where an assortment of delicious hors d'oeuvres were served. Commemorative photos of their participation in EDI events were presented. Vanna and Colleen will continue to manage the EDI programs. Wayne promises to keep promoting EDI at State Farm Insurance. Char will remain active in EDI by helping with Inclusion Fusion, etc. Thank you Vanna, Char, Colleen and Wayne for all your terrific contributions on the EDI Board!

EDI & Ted Yamamura Honored as Top Contributors to Asian Community

2010-12-09T17:03:00.000-08:00

Star Macdonald (center), EDI's Executive Director, accepts NW Asian Weekly's Top Contributors Award as Rep. Marcie Maxwell and EDI Co-Founder Vanna Novak (left) and EDI alumni look on at the House of Hong. (Photo-Courtesy of George Liu, Northwest Asian Weekly).

BELLEVUE, Wash., December 9, 2010 – Bellevue-based Executive Development Institute (EDI) was honored last week as a recipient of the Top Contributor to the Asian Community Award. The Northwest Asian Weekly Foundation presents this award annually to select individuals and organizations recognized for making a positive difference in the Asian Pacific American community. Ted Yamamura, EDI's co-founder, also received an individual award for his contributions.
Over 300 people attended the award ceremony and dinner at the House of Hong Restaurant in Seattle. Starr Macdonald, EDI's Executive Director, accepted the award on behalf of EDI. Vanna Novak, EDI Co-Founder accepted the award on behalf of Yamamura who was unable to attend the event.
Yamamura and Novak had a vision to build a community of diverse global leaders and created EDI in 1994. Its culturally tailored leadership programs are business relevant and empower participants to leverage their cultural and diverse attributes for accelerated professional growth. Nearly 17 years later, EDI has graduated more than 550 multi-ethnic professionals from its Leadership Discovery program.
Major community and business sponsors for EDI include, KeyBank, Boeing, Prudential, Nordstrom, Puget Sound Energy, Weyerhaeuser, State Farm Insurance, and Wells Fargo. EDI's mission is to build a community that meets the growing imperative for global leaders.
Since 1990, the Northwest Asian Weekly Foundation has been recognizing "Top Contributors." This year 11 individuals and one organization received awards.
Other individuals honored as Top Contributors include: Chang Rae Lee, Pepper Jack Fast Food Restaurant in Bellevue; Christine Umayam, Child United; Debadutta Dash, Washington State's Commission on Asian Pacific American Affairs (CAPAA); Yoshi Minegishi, Celebrate Asia!; Vera Ing, community activist and author; Susan Lee, Korean American Chamber of Commerce; Thanch Nguyen, The Gift; Ruthann Kurose, Washington State Liquor Control Board; Theresa Pan Hosley, Chinese Reconciliation Project Foundation; Ellen Abellera, CAPAA.
Major sponsors for the Top Contributors Awards are Wells Fargo, Bellevue College, Puget Sound Energy, Seattle Seahawks, State Farm Insurance and Aero Controls., Inc.

EDI Hosts 17th Annual Graduation Gala

2010-11-09T22:59:00.000-08:00

EDI Graduation on YouTube - Click on arrow below to get a glimpse of the Leadership Navigation Program!

BELLEVUE, Wash., November 10, 2010 – The Executive Development Institute (EDI) hosted its 17th annual graduation gala with close to 300 sponsors, mentors, friends and family in attendance at the Hilton Bellevue last week. EDI also hosted its third annual graduation for its Greater Portland graduates last week in Portland. Altogether 54 graduates were honored this year for completing EDI's culturally tailored leadership programs.
The 2010 EDI graduates include talented professionals at organizations including Microsoft Corporation, The Boeing Company, Weyerhaeuser Company, Nike, Puget Sound Energy, State Farm Insurance, PricewaterhouseCoopers, KeyBank, Rainier Scholars, Symetra Financial, Element3, International Students Inc., NW Natural, Emeritus Senior Living and NW Vietnamese News.
Keynote speaker, Yau-Man Chan, CBS Survivor Contestant and Chief Technology Officer, College of Chemistry, University of California-Berkeley shared his experiences as Survivor contestant in Survivor Fiji in 2007 and Survivor Micronesia in 2008. Sandra Madrid, PhD, Senior Advisor to the Dean, University of Washington School of Law emceed the graduation event.
Graduates shared their teambuilding and leadership experiences serving on community projects with non-profit organizations including Chinese Information and Service Center, Neighborhood House, Oregon Nikkei Endowment, Operation Nightwatch, Page Ahead Children's Literacy Program, Rainier Scholars, and Seattle Police Foundation.
EDI provides culturally tailored leadership programs that position Asian-Americans and Hispanics on a fast track for successful executive service and other leadership positions. They are unique programs, providing cutting-edge leadership training that focuses on practical, real-world problem solving in a multi-cultural context.
Since its inception in 1994, EDI has graduated more than 550 multi-ethnic professionals from its Leadership Discovery program. Major community and business sponsors for EDI include Microsoft, KeyBank, Boeing, Prudential, Nordstrom, Puget Sound Energy, Weyerhaeuser, State Farm Insurance, and Wells Fargo.

EDI Honors UW President Mark Emmert for Advancing Social Justice: Interned Japanese-Americans Received Honorary Degrees

2010-09-13T23:34:00.000-07:00

Executive Development Institute (EDI), headquartered in Bellevue, Wash., partnered with University of Washington (UW) and Union Bank to host a surprise farewell reception for UW President Mark Emmert at UW's Kane Hall, last week. Emmert was recognized for supporting social justice in embracing the opportunity to award interned Nikkei or Japanese-American graduates with honorary degrees in the commemorative Long Journey Home event.

In 2008, Emmert presented honorary degrees to all Nikkei students or surviving family members who had their education disrupted by the incarceration of thousands of Japanese-Americans during World War II. UW is the first university to advocate honorary degrees to the Japanese-American graduates of 1941-42.

Dr. Tetsu Kashima, Chair of the Long Journey Home Committee and UW professor of American ethnic studies and Dennis Yamashita, Japan-America Society Board Chair, shared remarks on the significance of acknowledging the suffering of those students by awarding them honorary degrees. Kashima initiated the petition to the UW regents to approve the measure. The federal government removed all 440 UW Japanese-American students from the University. Though some of these Nisei (second generation Japanese-Americans) returned or received their degrees from other colleges, many others were unable to finish their education at the UW.

Dr. Phyllis Wise, UW Provost and Interim President-Designate shared the UW perspective. Ted Yamamura, EDI Co-Founder and Boeing Regional Manager and Tim Otani, Union Bank Vice President of Community Relations, presented a glass plaque to Emmert inscribed with the Japanese characters for "kansha" or gratitude and appreciation. Emmert made closing remarks.

About 100 guests attended the reception including Japanese Consul General Kiyokazu Ota, Tomio Moriguchi, Chairman of Uwajimaya, and other prominent members of the Asian American community. Diane Adachi, UW Assistant Vice President and Special Assistant to the Provost served as emcee.

The Center for APA Women Hosts Whole Person Leadership Seminar

2010-09-02T20:52:00.000-07:00

The Center for APA Women (formerly APAWLI) Announces our Whole Person Leadership Seminar

Save the Date - October 1, 2010
Register online at http://wplseattleu.eventbrite.com. See more information on our Programs page.
Host Sponsor: Seattle University School of Law

EDI Organizes 2010 Picnic with Asian Pacific Alliance

2010-08-25T11:07:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, August 21, 2010, approximately 350 people came to the 2010 Leadership Community Picnic, held at Lake Boren Park, Newcastle.

EDI led the Asian Pacific Alliance, comprised of ten organizations that serve Asian Americans in the Greater Seattle area, in planning for the picnic. The 20-member committee began planning for this year’s picnic back in January. Over fifty volunteers helped set up games, including dodgeball and volleyball, man information booths, and pass out lunches. Picnickers enjoyed gourmet Vietnamese-style sandwiches from Baguette Box and desert from Monsoon Restaurant.

"The planning team greatly appreciates the financial sponsorship of Microsoft, Prudential, T-Mobile, and Puget Sound Energy. They helped make this community event possible. I also am honored to have worked with representatives from our Asian Pacific Alliance partners. It’s been a lot of fun working with this group for months, and Saturday’s event would not have been possible without their energy and passion for leadership,” said Ador Yano, EDI board member and EDI alumnus 2004, and the Co-Chair of the Leadership Community Picnic planning committee.

“This has been the best APA picnic in my recent memory. My hat is going off to the leaders and all volunteers involved,” said Jiin-chiang Chen, who represented Boeing Asian-American Professional Association (BAAPA) on the picnic planning committee.

Washington State Senator 41st District Randy Gordon and King County Assessor Lloyd Hara were also at the picnic.

EDI Leadership Navigation Session: "The Power Grid"

2010-08-23T15:23:00.000-07:00

Federal Way, Wa - At the Weyerhauser Headquarters last friday, Executive Development Institute (EDI)Leadership Navigation program participants met for its 7th session entitled Gamesmanship: Knowing Your Field of Play and How to Create Wins and learn from executive mentors on organizational politics. (Note: the Leadership navigation program is for mid- to senior level professionals having displayed managerial, entrepreneurial and leadership skills.)

I had the privilege of sitting in and taking part in the discussions. The session's distinguished executive mentors included George S Kikuchi (US Postal Service Executive, retired); John Okamoto (Executive Director, Washington Education Association); Jenette Ramos (Director, Business Operations, Fabrication; Boeing Commercial Airplanes); and Marvin (Ray) Risco (Vice President of International Operations at Weyerhauser).

What I learned was that organizational politics are as old as the history of business. This session looked at the role of power and politics within organizations.

I widened my awareness, gained a better understanding and tools needed to be able to assess the relevant “rules of the Game” and developed effective strategies and skills to succeed in any organization. More importantly, I wanted to be a much more skillful player. For example, George mentioned to gain power yourself, you need to start with yourself, expand your circle of influence, and be aware when power is granted to you because identifying the invisible power grid underlying the field of organizational dynamics allows us to appreciate what’s really happening versus what we hear or see taking place. Knowing this gave me, I think, a significant strategic advantage in being able to influence decisions, move projects along and close critical deals.

I want to thank EDI's Executive Director, Starr MacDonald and session facilitator, Colleen Yamaguchi for granting me this privilege. Thanks!

Regards,
Gil Gido
NAAAP Seattle
President

From the UWAA President

2010-08-07T13:40:00.000-07:00

Colleen Fukui-Sketchly is now the UWAA President. Colleen is an EDI graduate and EDI supporter. Congratulations Colleen on your new position!

Dear friends,

It’s my honor to serve as your board president for the 2010-11 academic year. The UW Alumni Association is a wonderful organization that brings incredible value to our community. But I don’t have to tell you that. As members, you are the difference-makers.

Our past-president, Eddie Pasatiempo, set the bar high and I am extremely grateful for his hard work and leadership. Eddie’s volunteer efforts on behalf of the UW are an inspiration. My goal as president is to tell your stories and provide you with opportunities to connect that are right for you and your family.

We just saw what 1,500 graduates can do for the Seattle Mariners, who won a 1-0 decision July 18 at Husky Night with the Seattle Mariners. Other Husky Summer Celebrations have been equally successful, and there are many more happening across the country, including salmon barbecues, potluck lunches and so on. Find an event near you!

I come from a family of Huskies and look forward to communicating with alumni and friends who have been touched by the UW over the years. Through Columns magazine and your monthly Member E-newsletter, I will keep you informed about what’s changing in the world of membership. With new discounts in the works for movies, jazz, ballet, concerts and more, our staff is making great connections that will give you even more chances to be proud of your membership.

Thanks for being a UWAA member, and here’s to a great year!

Sincerely,

Colleen

EDI Hosts Forum on Both Good and Bad Effects of Social Media

2010-07-02T22:23:00.000-07:00

Executive Development Institute (EDI), headquartered in Bellevue, Wash., organized a 2010 Leadership Together Educational Forum on the "Invasion of Social Media - The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly!" at The Seattle Times Auditorium on June 22nd. National Association of Asian American Professionals(NAAAP)-Seattle and Qwest Pacific Asian American Network cooperated with EDI to market the program. Prudential Insurance Company of America was the event's sponsor.
Charlie Harger, KOMO Newsradio's technology and social media reporter and president of Bohado Media spoke to an audience of about 75 attendees. His presentation covered how to take advantage of social media to advance your professional brand, do business and expand your network. He also covered how to repair and change your current image in the virtual world.
""Prudential is proud of our relationship with EDI," said Joneil Custodio, Prudential's West Coast diversity manager and former NAAAP-Seattle PR/Marketing chair. "With their leadership in the community, we are able to create and deliver innovative programs, such as this one tonight, that bring our Asian community closer - making us stronger."
EDI is a prominent Pacific Northwest non-profit agency offering ethnically-tailored leadership programs focused on leveraging cultural and diverse attributes of participants to develop their full potential as global leaders. Its unique programs offer real-time leadership solutions to companies and organizations seeking leaders equipped with cross-cultural insights and business savvy to manage global strategies and to connect with diverse markets. Since 1994, nearly 500 Asian Pacific and Hispanic participants have graduated from EDI.
The Prudential Insurance Company of America and its affiliates, Newark, New Jersey are Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employers. The Prudential Insurance Company of America and its affiliates are not affiliated with EDI.

Don Wakamatsu's Makes Special Appearance at Inclusion Fusion!

2010-05-26T23:17:00.000-07:00

SEATTLE, Wash., May 25, 2010 – Executive Development Institute (EDI) held its annual benefit dinner and auction "Inclusion Fusion" at Seattle's newly renovated SODO Park on May 20th. Over 250 guests participated in the silent and live auctions contributing about $90,000 in funds.
Mariners Manager Don Wakamatsu made a special appearance and mingled with guests. The dinner's bright and festive ambiance highlighted entertainment by the Mariachi Fiesta Mexicana musicians and Korean Morning Star Taiko drummers and dancers. Guests were served Hispanic and Asian fusion dishes including Cilantro Crusted Halibut, Chimichurri Beef, Shitake-Asparagus Tamale with Mole and Spicy Ginger Mandarin Cabbage Slaw.
As "Inclusion Fusion" conveys, EDI is embarking on a new chapter in its 16 year history. The non-profit leadership institute will be expanding its programs to additional ethnic groups. Last year, EDI successfully introduced a leadership program tailored for Hispanic participants in addition to its long-established programs for Asian-Pacific participants. Over 500 participants have graduated from EDI leadership programs.
Funds raised will allow EDI to continue to expand its programs both in content and diversity. EDI's vision is to be the preeminent leadership institute where corporations and organizations seek diverse global leaders. Its programs encourage cultural authenticity as a springboard to advance global business and cross-cultural understanding.
Major sponsors for this benefit dinner include Prudential, KeyBank Foundation, State Farm Insurance, Weyerhaeuser, Boeing, Nordstrom, and Wells Fargo. Emcees for the event were Jaime Mendez, anchor for Univision and Marlee Ginter, anchor for KOMO. Laura Michalek, "Seattle's Fundraising Auctioneer," was the featured auctioneer. For more information on EDI and its leadership programs, please visit www.ediorg.org.

Lip Smacking Fusion Cooking at "Inclusion Fusion"!

2010-05-04T18:54:00.000-07:00

BELLEVUE, Wash., May 4, 2009 – Executive Development Institute’s (EDI) 2010 benefit dinner and auction "Inclusion Fusion" on May 20th, 5-9 PM, at SODO Park (3200 1st Avenue South, Seattle) is designed to delight your senses with fusion cooking from Hispanic and Asian cultures. Four renowned cooks from the Pacific Northwest will create innovative dishes based on the original flavors of these enduring civilizations.
Featured chefs include Diego Castroviejo, executive chef at Taberna del Albardero; Joey Serquinia, executive chef at Harvest Vine; Sam Ung, executive chef and owner, Phnom Penh Noodle House; and Dalis Chea, executive chef of Herban Feast. The menu features combinations of Hispanic and Asian cuisine such as Cilantro Crusted Halibut and Chimichurri Beef, Shitake-Asparagus Tamale with Mole, Snap Peas and Veracruz Rice, and Spicy Ginger Mandarin Cabbage Slaw.
As "Inclusion Fusion" conveys, EDI is embarking on a new chapter in its 16 year history. The non-profit leadership institute will be expanding its programs to additional ethnic groups. Last year, EDI successfully introduced a leadership program tailored for Hispanic participants in addition to its long-established programs for Asian-Pacific participants.
Participation is open to the public and will allow EDI to continue to expand its programs both in content and diversity. EDI's vision is to be the preeminent leadership institute where corporations and organizations seek diverse global leaders. Its programs encourage cultural authenticity as a springboard to advance global business and cross-cultural understanding.
Major sponsors for this benefit dinner include Prudential, KeyBank Foundation, State Farm Insurance, Weyerhaeuser, Boeing, Nordstrom, and Wells Fargo. Emcees for the event are Jaime Mendez, anchor for Univision and Marlee Ginter, anchor for KOMO. Laura Michalek, "Seattle's Fundraising Auctioneer," will be the featured auctioneer. Please register at www.ediorg.org or call 425.467.9365.

Introducing New Board Members and Officers

2010-03-09T17:25:00.001-08:00

March 9, 2010 – EDI elected four new members to its Board of Directors: George Alabi, Boeing Commercial Airplanes; Amy Hartlmueller-Torres, KeyBank; Nitza Agrait Vilá, Microsoft Corporation; and Ador Yano, Massachusetts Medical Society.

The Board also elected new officers from its current board members including: Wallace Greene, President; Lorraine Yu, Vice President; Gaylord Escalona, Secretary; and Chee-Tuck Wong, Treasurer. EDI is a non-profit agency with a mission of developing culturally diverse leaders.

Alabi is Regional Director in Boeing Commercial Airplanes Product Marketing. Alabi communicates the value of Boeing products to top airline executives worldwide. Born in El Salvador he came to the U.S. at the age of seven. He graduated from the University of California with degrees in Spanish, Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering. He also attained a Juris Doctor degree from Seattle University School of Law and is licensed to practice law in the State of Washington.

Hartlmueller-Torres is Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager for KeyBank's future Newcastle branch, opening in July. She prides herself on building long term relationships with her clients to become their trusted advisor. She is an adopted Korean American who came to the U.S. at the age of six. Hartlmueller-Torres actively supports March of Dimes and Relay for Life and Junior Achievement.

Agrait Vilá serves as Senior Attorney at Microsoft Corporation and provides frontline legal support for various sales and marketing organizations. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, she attended Harvard and Radcliffe colleges followed by law school at the University of Puerto Rico and the Universitat de Barcelona.

Yano is Product Development Manager for Massachusetts Medical Society, publisher of The New England Journal of Medicine. Yano directs the development of new publishing technology products for medical professionals as the Journal transitions to digital and networked publishing environments. Born in the Philippines, Yano came to the United States at the age of thirteen. He graduated from Yale University with a degree in Art and later worked at Microsoft and Hewlett-Packard. Yano has actively served the community in a number of non-profit organizations such Neighborhood House and Wing Luke Asian Museum.

INCLUSION FUSION: EDI Plans Fresh New Look for Benefit Dinner

2010-03-01T18:25:00.000-08:00

This year, EDI is planning an exciting new benefit dinner and auction called "INCLUSION FUSION." Committee members are busily preparing for this event. Contact us if you'd like to help. Get your friends and relatives jazzed about attending! Here are the details:

EDI's Inclusion Fusion - A Celebration of Friends, Food & Fun-Raising!

When: Thursday, May 20, 2010, 5PM to 9PM
Where: SODO Park (3200 1st Avenue South, Seattle)
Attire: Casual and Festive!
Hosts: Linda Villegas Bremer-Director of General Adminstration, State of Washington; John Hooper-Sr. VP, Human Resources, Weyerhauser Co.; S. Mae Fujita Numata-CFO Partner, Tatum LLC
Emcee: Jaime Mendez, Anchor, Univision; Marlee Ginter, Anchor, KOMO
Auctioneer: Laura Michalek, "Seattle's Fundraising Auctioneer"
Cost: $100 per person/ $1000 for table of 10
Registration: Visit www.ediorg.org or call 425-467-9365; dealine is 5pm on 5/6/2010

EDI Announces 20 Percent Reduction on Leadership Program Tuition

2010-01-12T23:25:00.000-08:00

January 12, 2010 -- EDI announces a 20 percent tuition reduction for its Leadership Navigation Program, an eight-month program beginning in March 2010 targeted for mid- to senior-level Asian Pacific managers.

In response to market input on continued economic challenges facing corporations and community organizations, EDI is offering its highly touted program at an extraordinary value of $5500 per participant. This is a $1300 reduction in program tuition, originally offered this year for $6800 per participant.

"We've revamped this year's Leadership Navigation Program to be the same quality of training only at a much higher value including leading-edge trainers, executive coaching, and first-rate accommodations. Professional one-on-one coaching alone is valued from $2000 to $3600 for up to eight hours. Participants will benefit by learning from nationally experienced trainers and connect with world-class leaders, mentors and coaches at an unprecedented value," said Starr Macdonald, executive director of EDI.

The announced application deadline for 2010 EDI leadership programs is January 30th. An extension until February 15th is under consideration. Interested candidates should contact Starr Macdonald at: 425.467.9365 or starr@ediorg.org.

Asian Americans Examine Ways to Advance Leadership In Corporations- Top Google Asian Pacific Executive is Keynote Speaker

2010-01-12T23:19:00.001-08:00

EDI, in collaboration with over eight other corporations and non-profit organizations, is hosting a culturally tailored Leadership Together Conference for Asian Pacific professionals to further develop their leadership skills. The conference "Ignite the Leader Within" will be held at Asian Counseling and Referral Service (ACRS) from 7:30 AM to 1 PM on January 30, 2010.

The conference will begin with a keynote presentation by Chee Chew, Engineering Director of Google. Chew is the second-highest ranking executive at Google in Washington State. The conference will also feature three interactive workshops focusing on risk-taking, conflict resolution and identifying your personal leadership brand lead by J.D. Hokoyama, President and CEO of Leadership Education for Asian Pacifics, Inc.; Vanna Novak, Presiden tof Speak to Persuade; and Colleen Yamaguchi, leadership coach and consultant. Each topic is tailored to address professional barriers that may hinder Asian Pacific managers from advancing to corporate leadership positions.

The cost to attend the conference is $50 per person before January 15, 2010 and $65 per person after January 15, 2010. To register for the conference and more information, visit www.ediorg.org.

EDI Offers Scholarship for Leadership Program

2010-01-01T23:37:00.000-08:00

The Atsuhiko and Ina Goodwin Tateuchi Foundation is providing a grant to EDI from which a $3,500 scholarship will be offered to candidates interested in attending this year's Leadership Discovery Program. Applications are due Feb. 15, 2010 and the final selection will be made by March 1, 2010.

Interested scholarship candidates should be recognized as emerging Asian Pacific leaders working at nonprofit agencies with a strong desire to move into senior leadership roles. The candidate should also have preferably five years business experience, experience managing personnel or large complex projects, have strong teamwork abilites, and be committed to attending all sessions of the eight-month EDI Leadership Discovery Porgram as an active contributor. Candidates should also demonstrate financial need.

The Tateuchi Foundation seeks to promote and improve international understanding by building bridges of hope, understanding, and opportunity. The late Atsuhiko Tateuchi was the founder of Drake Beam Morin Japan, Japan's largest outplacement firm. He is recognized nationally for his contributions to cultural and educational exchange between the U.S. and Japan.

For more details on the this scholarship and application, please contact EDI's Executive Director Starr Macdonald at 425.467.9365, starr@ediorg.org, or visit www.ediorg.org.

A PhD Finds Community Work the Most Inspiring

2009-12-28T00:10:00.000-08:00

By Julie Pham
(Originally posted in International Examiner - Editorial, Finding My Own "InspirAsian", Volume 37 No. 21)

Julie Pham is editor of the Seattle Vietnamese newspaper, Nguoi Viet Tay Bac. This article also appeared on www.newamericamedia.org.

Three Novembers ago, I kneeled before the Chancellor of Cambridge University for my PhD in history. This November, I walked across a stage at the Bellevue Hilton for another certificate – from the Executive Development Institute (EDI), which helps develop culturally diverse leaders in the corporate world.

In the fall of 2008, I ended my nomadic life as a graduate student and returned to my hometown of Seattle to learn about entrepreneurship firsthand, by working at the family business, the Northwest Vietnamese News newspaper.

Although I researched Asian history for most of my adult life, only when I returned to Seattle did I join any organization that focused on serving Asians. When I first decided to study Vietnamese, academic ambition rather than personal reasons drove my efforts.

Now, being Vietnamese American is very much a part of my personal and professional identity. My newspaper keeps thousands of Vietnamese across the state informed of local news. I cannot imagine not being able to speak to my parents in Vietnamese, though I only spoke English to them up until ten years ago.

Over the past two years, I have learned what it means to serve Asians, not to just study Asian history.

When I first started working at the newspaper, I saw its potential to be a bridge between my ethnic community and mainstream society. This is true for all ethnic media. To fulfill its potential, I needed to find supporters not just from within, but also outside the Vietnamese community. So, I ventured outside my Rainier Valley office and began to build my local networks, focusing first on the Asian American community.

I Googled “Asian American” and “Seattle,” and found the National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP)-Seattle. It became my first formal network.

As I assumed the role of the newspaper’s spokesperson, I realized I needed to become the leader people perceived me as.

My parents and academic advisers never mentioned “leadership development” and “networking.” They stressed that if I studied and worked hard, success would follow. When I made a career change at an age most of my friends were on their second or third promotion, I knew that I had to work smarter, not just harder.

I discovered volunteering provides unique opportunities to network. Through volunteering on the boards of the MLK Business Association, NAAAP-Seattle, and Celebrate Asia! Seattle Symphony, I am able to hone my leadership skills and work alongside dedicated individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Through NAAAP, I learned about the Executive Development Institute. I applied for and won the 2010 NAAAP-Prudential Benefit to EDI.

Aside from formal training with EDI, numerous community leaders have generously mentored me, helping me refine my raw energy and passion. Yoshi and Naomi Minegishi have shown me how to organize and negotiate efficiently, effectively and with grace. Christine Chen always asks me hard questions, pushing me to clarify my message. Elaine Kitamura has taught me the art of networking. Dr. Skip Rowland, Lourdes Sampera Tsukada, Assunta Ng, among many others, continue to inspire me with their pioneering spirit and their commitment to diversity.

In the Vietnamese community – my father Kim Pham, the president of the Vietnamese American Chamber of Commerce Trong Pham, and the Executive Director of the Vietnamese Friendship Association Vu Le always share their invaluable insights.

After seeing a need for ethnic media outlets to become stronger as businesses, I created and launched a capacity-building program for local ethnic media called Sea Beez this past May, with the support of New America Media and the City of Seattle Department of Neighborhoods. Sea Beez includes over twenty different ethnic media organizations, which serve communities as diverse as the Somalis, Chinese, the Yakama, Jews, African Americans, and Hispanics, among others.

Looking back over these two years, by returning home, new worlds have opened up to me.

Over 200 attend EDI Graduation at Hilton Bellevue

2009-11-14T14:08:00.000-08:00

35 Leaders Graduate from EDI

2009-11-14T13:48:00.000-08:00

35 Hispanic and Asian Pacific managers from various companies including Boeing, Microsoft, Google, Weyerhauser, Wells Fargo, State Farm Insurance, KeyBank, KeyBanc Capital Markets, CVPartners and Seattle Times graduated from the Executive Development Institute (EDI) on Nov. 12, 2009. Over 200 attended the graduation. Marlee Gintner, news reporter for KOMO-TV, was the emcee at the graduating ceremony, held at the Hilton Bellevue Hotel. Linda Bremer, Director, General Administration for the State of Washington, gave opening remarks. Nine Hispanics from the inaugural Hispanic Leadership Discovery Program and 26 Asian Pacific graduates were recognized for their community service to various non-profit organizations. They shared their insights and learnings from their experiences. Keynote speaker Wesley Hom, former IBM Vice President, gave an inspiring speech loaded with good advice. "Remain flexible, take risks. Don't be myopic and build new types of relationships," said Hom. "Build your brand based on your passion and uniqueness."

Any thoughts you'd like to add on the event...newly graduated alums, alums, sponsors, mentors, EDI board members, EDI friends?

Ted Retires from EDI Board!

2009-11-06T21:51:00.000-08:00

EDI Thanks Ted for His Contributions

2009-11-06T21:46:00.000-08:00

EDI board members and alumni met at Starr's house Nov. 6, 2009 to thank Ted Yamamura for his contributions as a board member. Ted plans on retiring from the EDI board but will remain active as the "Chief Recruiter and Visionary" for EDI. As the Co-Founder of EDI along with Vanna Novak, Ted is never lacking for ideas. We'll miss him on the Board but are sure he'll be letting us know what we should be doing to grow as an organization. Thanks Ted for everything...don't go too far and keep our program registration growing!

Board Members Get Involved at Retreat

2009-11-06T13:05:00.000-08:00

Board Retreat: First Step to a New Vision for EDI!

2009-11-06T12:41:00.000-08:00

John Chen facilitated a lively EDI Board Retreat at the Tukwila office of State Farm, Oct. 29, 2009. Board Members participated in a busy full-day agenda. After George Kikuchi led the group in an exercise to share insights about each other, the board engaged in a walk through EDI's 15 year history to gain a foundation for future vision and strategies.

The remainder of the day was dedicated to examining what bold steps EDI should take to grow the organization. Most board members agreed that we had to continue the programs in place while continuing to deepen and improving on them. At the same time, it was decided that the programs needed to widen in scope to include new markets, clients, and subject matter.

Board members were asked to create a "cover story" of EDI on the cover of a prominent magazine. Members shared their vision for the headlines and the goals of EDI in this cover story. Everyone had big dreams for EDI. Members agreed that there had to be agreement on the organization's brand as a foundation to all other steps. Members brainstormed what EDI's brand encompassed.

Some thoughts and images that emerged about EDI and its alums include the following: international/global, bridging gaps, safe environment, authentic leaders, understanding cultural diversity, good return on investment, credibility, value, professional, difference maker, competitive edge, inspires courage & leadership, bottom-line-enhancer, trusted, preferred business partner, diversity advocate, diverse solutions, talent pool, successful, powerful network, business enablers, professional growth. These words describe what board members aspire to be part of EDI's enduring brand recognition.

Board Members, do you have any comment on your perspective on the meeting and your vision for the future EDI?

NAAAP-Seattle Will Award Scholarship for Member to Attend EDI Leadership Discovery Program in 2010

2009-10-20T23:03:00.000-07:00

Each year, the Seattle Chapter of the National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP-Seattle) provides academic opportunities to outstanding Asian American candidates. NAAAP-Seattle is selecting one NAAAP-Seattle member to represent the organization in the Executive Development Institute (EDI) Asian Pacific Leadership Discovery Program for class of 2010.

The EDI Asian Pacific Leadership Discovery Program is an eight-month, culturally tailored leadership program geared towards Asian Pacific Americans. The recipient will:

1. Receive one free full program tuition (valued at $3,500)
2. Obtain cutting-edge leadership training.
3. Learn from current executive mentors on being a future leader.
4. Collaborate with local organizations on serving your community

Additionally, the benefit recipient will put this leadership training into action by serving on the NAAAP-Seattle Board or on one of the NAAAP-Seattle Committees. Applications can be found at http://seattle.naaap.org/. For inquiries contact Lisa Nguyen, NAAAP-Seattle Scholarship Committee Chair, at naaap-scholarship@gmail.com. The deadline is Nov. 6, 2009. Apply now!

EDI Slide Show - 2009 Events

2009-10-11T16:27:00.000-07:00

EDI's Co-Founder Novak Leads Workshop at Womens' National Leadership Summit

2009-10-11T15:54:00.000-07:00

Over 200 women of Asian and Asian Pacific Heritage attended the National Leadership Summit to network and advance leadership skills on the weekend of Sept. 26-27. The Summit was hosted by The Center for Asian Pacific American Women (The Center) and took place at Microsoft's Conference Center.

About 36 Asian American women business and community leaders led the plenary session, panel discussions and 15 workshops. One of the most in-demand workshops was Speak to Persuade: When Being Informative is Not Enough, offered by Vanna Novak, president and founder of Speak to Persuade and Co-Founder of the Executive Development Institute (EDI).

"I know that Asian women are striving to break the "bamboo ceiling" and stereotype of being timid and non-assertive in business settings," said Novak who is a Japanese-American. "Part of being a leader is to be able to exude credibility and competence while building an emotional connection with the audience. Learning to speak persuasively is a crucial leadership quality that is a central take-away in my workshops."

Over 40 women participated in Novak's worksho which included critiques of participants' videotaped presentations. During the two and a half hours session, participants learned how the nonverbal impact of presentations such as voice, facial expressions, body movement, posture and dress can influence over 50 percent of the total input of the presentation.

The Center is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing teh challenges facing Asian Pacific American (APA) women and nurturing stewardship within communities by advancing leadership and creating a supportive network of APA women. Major sponsors for the conference included Microsoft, State Farm Insurance, Nordstrom, Southwest Airlines.

EDI Organizes Welcome for Microsoft's Dr. Qi Lu

2009-10-11T15:42:00.000-07:00

Over 200 people form the Asian Pacific Islander community attended a welcoming reception for Dr. Qi Lu, president of Microsoft's Online Services Division in late July at China Harbor Restaurant. That same day, Microsoft announced it had entered a strategic search and advertising partnership with Yahoo! where Dr. Lu was a respected executive for ten years. Microsoft hired Dr. Lu in Dec. of last year. He will have a direct reporting relationship to Microsoft's CEO Steve Ballmer.

EDI worked with a number of evetn sponsors to organize the reception including Greater Seattle Chinese Chamber of Commerce, iSoftStone, Chinasoft, Prudential, Chinese Institute of Engineers, Asian Counseling and Referral Service, Boeing Asian American Professional Association, International Community Health Services, and National Association fo Asian American Professionals.

EDI and Prudential Organized Networking Meeting for Job Searchers

2009-09-30T16:52:00.000-07:00

In early September, EDI and Prudential kicked-off its first "Leadership Together" networking meeting to tackle the challenges of job searching. Over 50 participants engaged in an interactive exchange on tips for standing out from the competition at Hotel Sierra in Bellevue.

Lynn Takaki, 1994 EDI graduate and vice president of human resources for Precor, Inc. was the featured speaker and shared some insights on networking, interviewing and job search strategies. Participants were comprised evenly of job seekers, career transitioners, and supporters of those looking for resources and opportunities.

The next networking meeting will be held on October 15, sponsored by EDI and Prudential. Stay tuned for details!

Tastes of Asia raises $90,000

2009-09-30T16:34:00.000-07:00

This summer in June, EDI organized the Tastes of Asia benefit dinner and auction at SODO Park and raised $90,000 for EDI programs. Emcee and former FOX news anchor Christine Chen, aided by auctioneer Laura Michalek, helped put the "fun" in fundraising at the Tastes of Asia.

Attendees also competed for top honors in the Xbox 360 Rock Band and golf putting challenge. The main meal was provided by Herban feast featuring dishes such as Korean Kalbi Beef, Philippine Chicken Adobo, Thai Green Vegetable Curry, and Japanese Harusame Salad -- all so deliciously yummy!

EDI Initiates 2009 with Wakamatsu Welcome!

2009-09-30T15:52:00.000-07:00

In January 2009, EDI hosted Don Wakamatsu as the new Mariners' manager a the Nisei Veterans Committee Hall in Seattle. EDI coordinated the welcome reception with over 20 local Asian American non-profit and community organizations. Over 200 Asian American supporters attended.

Wakamatsu's paternal grandparents were fruit growers living in Oregon's Willamette valey. His father was an iron worker born at Tule Lake internment camp for Japanese-Americans during WWII. Wakamatsu attributes his management style to what he learned from his father and grandparent. He talked about using the Japanese concept of "isshin denshin" or "speak from the heart" to build strong relationships with team players. Wakamatsu was asked to paint the left eye of a Japanese Daruma doll done traditionally at the beginning of the New Year when starting a new venture.

EDI is celebrating its 15th anniversary year!