Lao Script (PC only)The 3rd Annual Lao Educational Conference
The Annual Lao Educational Conference (ALEC), founded in 2006 by visionary educator Lily Liemthongsamout, consists of a network of educators, college students, and those who share a unique vision of strengthening and enriching education in the Lao community. The ALEC, based in Sacramento, California, is a free educational conference that continues to build on its mission of inspiring and empowering students to pursue higher education for the betterment of self, family, and community. With the diligent work of its dedicated members and support from sponsors, volunteers, and the local community, the 3rd Annual Lao Educational Conference was a huge success. This year’s theme was “One Step Forward.”
Committee members smile for a successful fundraising dinner. All ticket proceeds and monetary donations benefit scholarship programs for middle and high school students.
Attendees of the fundraising dinner enjoy a night of traditional dance and music:
The conference took place at California State University of Sacramento on November 1, 2008. Committee members are excited to launch next year’s conference.
Jenny and Judy showcase a traditional Banh Lao (Lao House) and thank Lao Roots Magazine for their generous support.
Guest speakers at the conference: Lao painter and musician from Chicago, IL Chantala Kommanivanh and Dr. Phoumy Sayavong from Richmond, CA:
Committee member, Sacksith, leading students in a workshop. This gave students an opportunity to draft out their life path.
Parents and students face one another and vow to move “one step forward” together. By bridging the educational gap, parents and students can enjoy open communication about their goals.
The 3rd Annual Lao Educational Conference Committee Members would like to thank the following sponsors for their support:
Lao-American Advancement Organization
Sacramento City Unified School District
Twin Rivers Unified School District
California State University Sacramento, Multilingual/Multicultural Education Department
Members of 3rd ALEC include: Lily Liemthongsamout, Co-Chair and Jerry Sithiphone, Co-Chair. Other members include Filipina Ekkaphanh, Sacksith Ekkaphanh, Rinny Hang, Phonvilay Kham-Avone, Khonnie Lattasima, Danny Liemthongsamout, La Liemthongsamout, Matsa Mar, Bouasy Onesyada, Malayphone Phomsopha, Xay Phongmany, Sally Phonthachack, Nirandone Sanethavong, Jenny Sithiphone and Judy Sithiphone