APALA-NJ Executive and Leadership Team

Francis Yook, the President (2023-2024) at APALA-NJ, directs the strategic vision for the organization during a pivotal year of growth. Yook manages the execution of high-profile events, including the annual gala, while ensuring alignment with the core mission of supporting Asian Pacific American legal professionals. By coordinating with the board, Yook facilitates professional development initiatives that strengthen the legal community in New Jersey. This leadership role involves expanding membership engagement through targeted outreach and cultural celebrations. Francis Yook also oversees the integration of diversity advocacy into all organizational programming. Through consistent collaboration with regional legal partners, Yook secures the long-term sustainability of the association. The President (2023-2024) maintains a focus on fostering an inclusive environment that empowers members to excel in the legal field while promoting equity across the broader professional landscape.

Paul Yoon, the President (2012-2013) at APALA-NJ, architected the foundational growth strategies that defined the organization during that period. Yoon drove the expansion of networking platforms designed to connect legal professionals across the New Jersey area. By prioritizing professional development, the President (2012-2013) ensured that members gained access to critical resources for career advancement. Paul Yoon also managed the coordination of cultural events, such as the Lunar New Year Banquet, to celebrate heritage and build community cohesion. This leadership role required constant interaction with the board to refine the mission of promoting diversity within the legal sector. Through effective management of organizational resources, Yoon solidified the reputation of the association as a primary hub for legal talent. The President (2012-2013) remains a key figure in the history of the organization, having established frameworks that continue to support current diversity initiatives.

Jack Chan, the President (2018-2019) at APALA-NJ, executed comprehensive strategies to enhance the visibility of Asian Pacific American legal professionals. Chan directed the planning of major cultural celebrations and professional seminars that attracted diverse participants from across the state. By overseeing the operational budget and event logistics, the President (2018-2019) ensured that all programs delivered maximum value to the membership base. Jack Chan also facilitated partnerships with other legal organizations to broaden the impact of diversity advocacy efforts. This leadership role involved navigating complex community needs while maintaining the high standards of the association. Through proactive communication with the board, Chan aligned organizational goals with the evolving requirements of the legal industry. The President (2018-2019) successfully cultivated an environment where professional growth and cultural pride intersected, leaving a lasting influence on the trajectory of the organization.

Lora Fong, the President (2002-2003) at APALA-NJ, established the early operational standards that guide the organization today. Fong drove the initial efforts to create a robust network for legal professionals seeking representation and support in New Jersey. By organizing foundational events and community gatherings, the President (2002-2003) fostered a sense of belonging among members. Lora Fong also managed the strategic outreach necessary to build credibility within the legal community. This leadership role required balancing administrative duties with the long-term vision of promoting diversity in the legal field. Through consistent engagement with stakeholders, Fong ensured that the association remained a vital resource for its members. The President (2002-2003) provided the necessary structure for future growth, setting a precedent for excellence in advocacy and professional development that continues to define the mission of the organization.

Christine Neeman, the President (2017-2018) at APALA-NJ, led the organization through a period of increased focus on professional development and community impact. Neeman directed the implementation of educational programs that equipped legal professionals with the tools needed for career advancement. By overseeing the coordination of the annual gala and other key events, the President (2017-2018) ensured that the association remained a central hub for networking. Christine Neeman also managed the strategic alignment of organizational activities with the broader goal of promoting diversity in the legal sector. This leadership role involved working closely with the board to address the specific needs of the membership. Through effective management of resources and partnerships, Neeman strengthened the influence of the association within the New Jersey legal community. The President (2017-2018) successfully advanced the mission by creating meaningful opportunities for connection and professional growth.

Theodore Cheng, the President (2015-2016) at APALA-NJ, architected initiatives that expanded the reach of the organization across the legal landscape. Cheng drove the development of programs aimed at increasing the visibility of Asian Pacific American legal professionals in New Jersey. By managing the execution of cultural and professional events, the President (2015-2016) ensured that the association provided consistent value to its members. Theodore Cheng also facilitated collaboration between the board and external partners to promote diversity and inclusion. This leadership role required a strategic approach to community building and resource allocation. Through careful oversight of organizational operations, Cheng maintained the high standards expected by the membership. The President (2015-2016) successfully navigated the challenges of the legal industry, ensuring that the association remained a powerful advocate for its members and a leader in professional development.

Sudha Kantor, the President (2008-2009) at APALA-NJ, directed the strategic efforts to solidify the presence of the organization within the legal community. Kantor managed the planning of key events that brought together legal professionals for networking and cultural exchange. By overseeing the development of professional resources, the President (2008-2009) ensured that members received support tailored to their career goals. Sudha Kantor also facilitated communication between the board and the community to advance the mission of diversity. This leadership role involved balancing the operational needs of the association with the long-term vision of promoting equity in the legal field. Through effective management and outreach, Kantor strengthened the foundation of the organization. The President (2008-2009) remains a significant contributor to the success of the association, having fostered an environment of collaboration and professional excellence.

Allan Zhang, the President (2024-2025) at APALA-NJ, leads the current strategic initiatives aimed at modernizing the association's impact. Zhang directs the planning of upcoming cultural celebrations and professional development workshops designed to meet the needs of a diverse legal workforce. By overseeing the board's activities, the President (2024-2025) ensures that all programs align with the core mission of supporting Asian Pacific American legal professionals. Allan Zhang also manages the expansion of networking opportunities to include broader regional markets. This leadership role involves navigating the complexities of the current legal environment while maintaining a focus on diversity and inclusion. Through proactive engagement with members, Zhang fosters a community that encourages professional growth and advocacy. The President (2024-2025) continues to drive the organization forward, ensuring that it remains a vital resource for legal professionals across New Jersey.

Eric Fikry, the President (2016-2017) at APALA-NJ, executed strategies that enhanced the professional standing of the organization. Fikry directed the implementation of networking events that connected legal professionals with industry leaders. By overseeing the coordination of cultural celebrations, the President (2016-2017) ensured that the association remained a vibrant community for its members. Eric Fikry also managed the strategic partnerships necessary to promote diversity within the legal sector. This leadership role involved working with the board to address the evolving needs of the membership. Through effective management of organizational resources, Fikry strengthened the impact of the association in New Jersey. The President (2016-2017) successfully advanced the mission by creating opportunities for professional development and fostering a culture of inclusion. The efforts of Fikry continue to support the long-term goals of the organization and its commitment to its members.

Andrew Sarrol, the President (2019-2020) at APALA-NJ, led the organization through a period of strategic growth and community engagement. Sarrol directed the planning of key events that provided members with valuable networking and professional development opportunities. By overseeing the operational aspects of the association, the President (2019-2020) ensured that all initiatives supported the mission of promoting diversity in the legal field. Andrew Sarrol also managed the collaboration between the board and community stakeholders to increase the visibility of the organization. This leadership role involved navigating the challenges of the legal industry while maintaining a focus on member needs. Through effective management and outreach, Sarrol strengthened the influence of the association within the New Jersey legal community. The President (2019-2020) successfully advanced the goals of the organization, leaving a legacy of professional excellence and community support.