Jackie Liang is the Head of Data & AI at OnGov, leading the development of data and technology solutions for governments. A former Robert A. Fox Research Fellow at the University of Pennsylvania, his expertise is in translating data to solve public policy challenges. Jackie is a dedicated advocate for community development in Oregon through his board service at APANO and his work in economic development at Healthy Sustainable Communities. He holds an MPA from UPenn and a bachelor's degree in economics from Georgetown University

Amanda Pham Haines (APH), known professionally as APH, is a proud mixed race Vietnamese-American board member whose lived experience bridges cultures and communities. Growing up as the “whitest person” in her Vietnamese family in Texas, and later as the only minority in most spaces in Idaho, APH developed a nuanced understanding of identity, belonging, and the importance of honoring one’s heritage. Her Vietnamese roots remain a source of pride and strength, shaping her commitment to uplifting Asian American voices and fostering inclusive spaces.

APH moved to Portland, Oregon to attend Lewis & Clark Law School, intentionally choosing a path outside traditional legal practice. She was motivated by the recognition that knowledge, and the intentional inaccessibility of the law, often underpins the challenges faced by historically under-resourced and targeted communities. This insight continues to drive her advocacy for equity and justice.

With a background in DEI consulting, nonprofit leadership, legal advocacy, and program management, APH has designed and implemented equity-centered strategies across diverse environments. She is dedicated to ensuring that Asian American and other underrepresented voices are not only heard but empowered to shape their communities and institutions. Her approach is holistic and collaborative. Mentored by civil rights leaders and guided by her own journey, APH excels at building bridges, dismantling systemic barriers, and fostering environments where collective strength and hope can thrive.

Her expertise in negotiation, systems design, and relationship-building, combined with her personal and professional experiences, enables her to support APANO’s mission with authenticity, resilience, and a deep commitment to equity and her Vietnamese heritage.

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Tracey Nguyen is a second-generation Vietnamese American and lifelong Portlander. Currently a student at Lewis & Clark Law School, she previously attended Portland State University and Mt. Hood Community College. Her work experience includes roles in local government administration, healthcare, and small business ownership. As a Board member, Tracey prioritizes community-centered decision-making and responsive programming.

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Sam Kang joined the APANO board in 2025. He is the Executive Director of the Civics Learning Project, a nonpartisan, nonprofit education organization that creates hands-on, experiential opportunities for young people all over Oregon. Sam has served in a variety of leadership and executive roles in government, politics, tech, organized labor, and nonprofit organizations. He is a first generation American who grew up in a small business Asian household.

In previous roles, Sam was the political director of the largest independent labor union on the west coast, general counsel of The Greenlining Institute, and led government affairs in Lime’s largest North American markets. He has led numerous successful policy and legislative campaigns on economic equity, environmental justice, transportation access, and consumer protection. As a lawyer, Sam has successfully litigated dozens of cases before regulatory agencies, saving billions of dollars for consumers. 

Prior to law school, Sam was a Coro Fellow in Public Affairs in New York City and helped provide disaster relief after the 9/11 attacks. He also worked at the United Nations to facilitate delivery of humanitarian assistance in the Middle East following the first Gulf War. In his spare time, you might see Sam exploring the glorious outdoors of the Northwest with his family.

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Akiko Imamura Betcher is a Senior Community Health Consultant at Kaiser Permanente. Originally from Japan, she came to the United States for college and has spent the last 20 years advancing equitable health outcomes through strong community partnerships.

Her work focuses on food and nutrition security and mental and behavioral health, with an emphasis on community-centered approaches. Akiko also serves as co-chair of Asian and Pacific Islanders@KP, an employee resource group that supports inclusion, belonging, and leadership development.

Outside of work, Akiko enjoys exploring the Pacific Northwest with her Golden Retriever puppy, Mugi, and recreating the flavors of home through cooking.

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