SAN GABRIEL, Calif. — The San Gabriel Valley Regional Leadership Fundraiser, billed as “The Biggest Fund-Raiser in the SGV,” brought together elected officials, political candidates, community leaders, business representatives and residents from across the region on October 2 at the Hilton Los Angeles/San Gabriel.
Among the featured participants was Cindy Wu , a member of the Mountain View School District Board of Education, who delivered remarks emphasizing the importance of educational opportunity, cultural diversity and regional collaboration. Drawing on eight years of public service, Wu shared her commitment to advocating for students, supporting families and strengthening connections among communities throughout the San Gabriel Valley.
During her remarks, Wu described the San Gabriel Valley as a vibrant and culturally diverse region where people from different backgrounds and cities contribute to a shared sense of community. She praised the gathering for bringing together local leaders and residents, creating opportunities to build relationships, exchange ideas and encourage cooperation across city boundaries.
Wu expressed special appreciation to event organizer Samuel Kang for his vision and dedication to bringing communities together. She noted that although cities throughout the San Gabriel Valley are geographically close, opportunities for residents and civic leaders from across the region to gather in one place are especially meaningful.
She emphasized that events of this nature go beyond social networking, helping foster mutual understanding, stronger community relationships and a greater sense of regional unity.
Reflecting on her public service, Wu spoke with pride about becoming the first Asian American elected official on the Mountain View School District Board of Education, describing the milestone as both an honor and a responsibility.
Over the past eight years, she has worked to advocate for students and families, improve educational opportunities and support policies that promote a safe, inclusive and equitable learning environment.
Wu highlighted several priorities that have guided her work in education, including financial literacy, anti-bullying initiatives and expanded after-school programs.
She emphasized that education should go beyond academic achievement by equipping students with practical life skills, confidence and the resources needed to succeed in an increasingly complex world.
Financial literacy, she noted, is an essential component of preparing young people for adulthood. She also stressed the importance of preventing bullying, maintaining supportive school environments and ensuring that students have access to meaningful after-school learning and enrichment opportunities.
As she seeks election to a third term, Wu reaffirmed her commitment to continuing her advocacy for students, parents and the broader community. She expressed her determination to build upon her years of service by supporting educational resources, student well-being and policies that provide opportunities for children from all backgrounds.
Wu also underscored the close connection between strong schools and thriving communities. She encouraged continued collaboration among educators, families, elected officials and community organizations to create a brighter future for the next generation.
The fundraiser was co-hosted by Samuel Kang and Stan Liu and took place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Organizers described the event as an opportunity to unite political candidates, elected officials, community leaders, entrepreneurs and friends from throughout the San Gabriel Valley.
Participating candidates included Manny Acosta of South El Monte, Larry Spicer of Monrovia, Luz Yesenia Paez of Duarte, Dr. Diana Zhao of Walnut, Robert Gonzales of Azusa, Jessica Ancona of El Monte, Michael Cao of Arcadia and Vinh Ngo of Monterey Park.
The event's announced special guests included California State Senator Susan Rubio, Assembly member Blanca Rubio and Los Angeles County Assessor Jeff Prang, along with local elected officials representing Alhambra, South Pasadena, Rosemead, Lake Forest, Monrovia, Diamond Bar, Arcadia, Burbank and Monterey Park.
The broad participation reflected the event's goal of encouraging dialogue, building partnerships and strengthening civic engagement throughout the region.
In closing, Wu thanked the organizers, sponsors and attendees for their contributions to the gathering. She expressed hope that similar events would continue to bring people together across cultural and geographic boundaries, fostering a more connected, inclusive and supportive San Gabriel Valley.
Her remarks highlighted a central message: investing in education and strengthening community relationships are essential to creating lasting opportunities for future generations.
