Sandra Chen Lau has forged a distinguished path as a leader in philanthropy and higher education. She is renowned for her innovative approach, dedication to diversity, and relentless pursuit of academic excellence. Her career is marked by strategic vision and a deep commitment to enhancing the communities she serves. Sandra holds a Master's degree in urban planning from UCLA, where her studies focused on Leadership, Civil Society, and Nonprofit Management. She completed her undergraduate education at UC Riverside, earning a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and supplementing her academic credentials with a minor in Chinese Literature. These scholarly pursuits provided her with a comprehensive understanding of societal dynamics, crucial for her subsequent roles. As the president of the USC Arcadia Hospital Foundation, Sandra is expanding the foundation's philanthropic initiatives. Her leadership involves crafting and implementing innovative fundraising strategies that enhance the hospital's capabilities. Sandra works in close collaboration with the foundation's CEO and Board of Directors to uncover and develop new avenues for funding, thereby enhancing the hospital's capacity to deliver exceptional healthcare services. Sandra's tenure at the American Film Institute (AFI) was transformative. She shifted the organization's fundraising culture from mere transactional interactions to one focused on transformative giving. This strategic pivot led to a 250% increase in donations at the AFI Conservatory, mainly through her focus on securing major gifts and fostering individual contributions. Her introduction of advanced fundraising analytics and commitment to substantive giving strategies resulted in several significant six-figure donations. At the Japanese American National Museum, Sandra initiated a groundbreaking $65 million comprehensive campaign—the largest in the museum's history—successfully securing $33 million during the early phases. Her forward-thinking strategies, including the adoption of virtual galas during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulted in a 400% increase in annual fundraising. These efforts demonstrated her ability to innovate and adapt in response to challenges, ensuring the museum's financial health and expansion. In her roles at the University of Southern California, Sandra made significant contributions to fundraising efforts at both the USC Pacific Asia Museum and the USC School of Architecture. Her effective leadership led to increases in grants, memberships, and individual donations, paving the way for an ambitious $45 million campaign. She ensured that the Advancement team functioned cohesively and efficiently under her direction. Sandra began her career in development at UCLA's School of Public Affairs, where she led the development team and contributed to UCLA's $3.4 billion campaign. She managed a portfolio that included over $7 million in significant gift requests, securing $1.5 million for student fellowships within two years. Her strategies significantly boosted alumni contributions and donations from board members. Her achievements have earned her multiple recognitions, including a listing in Who's Who in Asia America from 2005 to 2010 and participation in Leadership Southern California, which underline her influential leadership and dedication. Furthermore, Sandra's commitment extends into community service. She has been a member of the governing board for the Pasadena Area Community College District since 2018 and served on the board of the Los Angeles County School Trustees Association from 2019 to 2023, impacting educational policies and community welfare. Sandra Chen Lau remains a dynamic leader whose influence is felt across various sectors. Her dedication to philanthropy and community involvement, combined with her professional standards, continues to inspire and motivate many. Her leadership, characterized by integrity, creativity, and a steadfast commitment to inclusivity and fairness, distinguishes her as a notable figure in her industry. Learn More: https://www.pasadenanow.com/main/guest-opinion-david-monkawa-message-to-pasadena-city-college-board-of-trustees https://www.pasadenanow.com/main/guest-opinion-sandra-chen-lau-parents-its-time-to-give-community-colleges-another-look https://www.pasadenanow.com/main/guest-opinion-sandra-chen-lau-outdoor-classroom-learning-the-alternative https://www.pasadenanow.com/main/guest-opinion-pcc-president-sandra-chen-lau-standing-up-for-good-governance https://www.pasadenanow.com/main/reaction-to-pcc-president-superintendents-impending-departure-varies-depending-on-whether-friend-or-foe https://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/ny-supreme-court/114970214.html https://www.pasadenastarnews.com/2023/02/15/pasadena-city-college-to-expand-family-resource-center-services-with-500k-grant/amp https://www.pasadenanow.com/main/pcc-board-names-jose-a-gomez-ph-d-interim-superintendent-president