Episode 16| S2: A Hmong-American pathway into nonprofit leadership

Susan Xiong was born and raised in Fresno, California, USA, to refugee parents of Hmong descent. She received her Bachelor of Social Work from California State University, Fresno, and her Master of Public Administration with a specialization in Organizational Leadership from National University. Susan Xiong is the founder and CEO of A Hopeful Encounter, Inc., a CBO (community-based organization) serving Southeast Asian youths and their families in Fresno and Southeast Asia. Susan currently serves on the:

Executive Board of Central Valley Regional Center as the Vice President,

Fresno County Board of Behavioral Health as a Board member,

Fresno County Commission of the Status of Women, and

Advisory Council for the Humanics Program at California State University, Fresno.

Education Chair for the Xiong of Fresno County and

a Board member of the Xiong United National Council.

Susan is passionate about cultivating and uplifting the next generation of leaders. In her personal and professional development journey, Susan is a Certified Trauma-Informed and Trauma Supportive Trainer and a certified Trauma Practitioner. Lastly, Susan continually supports youths in her role as a Wisdom Coach.