May 1, 2006

Makes Appointments to the Advisory Council for Asian and Pacific American Affairs

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm has declared May Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Michigan.  The proclamation celebrates the more than 200,000 citizens of Asian and Pacific Island descent in the state who continue to make significant economic, social, and political contributions to Michigan.
 
“Michigan’s cultural diversity is an important asset in attracting people and businesses to the state,” Granholm said.  “I welcome the opportunity to honor our Asian Pacific American citizens for their commitment to leadership, dedication to knowledge, and determination to succeed in Michigan.”
 
Granholm, who attended the Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner on Saturday, April 29, also announced the following appointments and reappointments to the Advisory Council for Asian and Pacific American Affairs:

Sheila Xiong of East Lansing, Michigan State University student and president of the Hmong American Student Association.  Ms. Xiong is appointed for a term expiring April 30, 2010.

Francisco B. Borja Jr. of Saginaw, president of Phil-Am Consulting and Tax Services, Inc.  Mr. Borja is reappointed for a term expiring April 30, 2010.

Susan Im of Grand Rapids, attorney in private practice and co-founder of the Asian Professionals Organization of West Michigan.  Ms. Im is reappointed for a term expiring April 30, 2010.

Radha Krishnan of West Bloomfield, president of R.K. International and president-elect of the National Federation of Indian-American Associations.  Mr. Krishnan is reappointed for a term expiring April 30, 2010.

Ernestina DeLos Santos-Mac, M.D. of Troy, pediatrician with the Pediatric Consultants of Troy.  Dr. DeLos Santos-Mac is reappointed for a term expiring April 30, 2010.

Marie-Ange Weng, Ph.D., R.N. of Rochester Hills, retired professor of nursing.  Dr. Weng is reappointed for a term expiring April 30, 2010.

Herbert S. Yamanishi of Lansing, president of the Mid-Michigan Asian Pacific American Association.  Mr. Yamanishi is reappointed for a term expiring April 30, 2010.

The Advisory Council for Asian and Pacific American Affairs is charged with serving in an advisory capacity to the Governor and alerting her to pertinent issues within the Asian and Pacific American community.  It also makes recommendations about programs and policies for the betterment of Asian and Pacific Islanders in Michigan and helps to promote public awareness of Asian and Pacific American culture and accomplishments. 
 
These appointments are not subject to disapproval.