EDWIN “ED” CHAU

Vice President, Montebello Unified School District

Take 10 | Full biography

1. How do we get more Asian Pacific Americans (APAs) to become more civically and politically involved?

We can focus on the following areas: (1) Education - to raise the awareness that APAs’ can and should have a voice at the decision-making table; that when power is exercised wisely, our society would be a better place to live, and one effective means to attain such power is by way of substantial involvement; to reinforce the notion that “public service”  is still a respectable profession; (2) Recruitment – to seek out qualified candidates to nurture them and possibly to provide financial support as needed; and (3) Mentorship - to familiarize all those interested in politics with the climate and culture, and to motivate the next generation of public servants

2. What is your dream job?

Being an obstetrician and bringing new lives to this world.

3. What was your childhood ambition?

To be a doctor.

4. What is the biggest challenge facing APAs in politics today?

Lack of significant involvement and unity.

5. What one law would you change if you could?

Equitable public financing law to assist the aspiring and needy candidates to run for public office.

6. What was your first job?

A delivery boy in a garment factory when I was 14 years old.

7. What one question would you most like to have answered?

What’s God’s plan for me? 

8. What is your favorite word/sound?

Think.

9. What was the last book you read?

The Broken Branch, by Thomas E. Mann and Norman J. Ornstein.

10. Who/what inspires you?

People who reached beyond their perceived potentials.

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