Our Founders

Founders C.C. and Regina Yin, together with a pioneering group of civic and community leaders, established APAPA (the Asian Pacific American Public Affairs Association) in 2001 to inspire, engage, and empower all communities to develop civic leadership. They are truly passionate and committed to advancing representation and to ensure all American voices are heard.

CC & Regina immigrated to this country from China and Taiwan to attend the University of Washington graduate school programs for engineering and social work. Later in life, they became McDonald’s Franchise Operators in Northern California, and owners of the Yin Ranch, a beautiful 40 acre property zoned as a park, in Solano County, California, which hosts many community and nonprofit events. They continue to serve as National Governing Board Members for APAPA.

Two decades ago, APAPA opened its National Headquarters in Sacramento, just a few miles from California’s Capitol. On the success and promise of the APAPA National Internship Program, we partner with hundreds of hosting legislators and public officials across the country each year to inspire the next generation of leaders. Momentum is growing with new APAPA leaders, interns, events, and programs, expanding across the country each year.

Fulfilling a Deep Need

Our country is great because of the contributions from all communities. That national strength shall be reflected in the people who govern us, our lives, and our future. We aren’t there yet. Leaders who understand and represent all communities must be developed. Together, we are building a better world that values all voices and communities.