AAJA's Deputy Executive Director Returns to Community Development

August 14, 2009

SAN FRANCISCO--(U.S. ASIAN WIRE)-- The Asian American Journalists Association announced Janice Lee, deputy executive director, will be leaving AAJA to join Urban Solutions, a community and economic development organization in San Francisco.



"It has been my greatest experience to serve AAJA, where I had the opportunity to work with journalists committed to telling the stories of communities across the country," Lee said.



"She will be greatly missed as we in AAJA have been blessed through the years to have Janice's ideas, insights, constancy and warm manner," said Interim Executive Director Maya Blackmun. "This all adds up to a lasting gift to AAJA and we all wish her the best as she moves on to new opportunities and contributions."



In her role at AAJA, she oversaw staff, operations and national programs at AAJA's National Office. She worked with staff, the Advisory Board and chapter members to implement the five-year strategic plan from January 2004 through December 2008, an ambitious blueprint that focused on sustaining the organization, partnerships with others in the media industry, community outreach through media watch and media access training, and strengthening the organization's infrastructure.



Lee's last day will be Aug. 15, the last day of the AAJA National Convention.



Lee will be joining Urban Solutions as development and communications director at Urban Solutions. The nonprofit worked on revitalizing two historically distressed areas in San Francisco -- the South of Market and Fillmore -- by working with small businesses on planning, securing loans, and providing green consulting.



"We owe Janice a huge thanks for the legacy she leaves at AAJA," said National President Sharon Chan. "With the excellent team she put together and the completion of our strategic plan, Janice built a strong fire that will fuel AAJA going forward."