MONTEREY PARK, CA – East Los Angeles College's (ELAC) full-time political science professor and director of the pathway to law program Kenneth Chaiprasert was one of four community college faculty members in the state of California to earn the California Community Colleges' Gerald C. Hayward Award for Excellence in Education.

Professor Chaiprasert was selected for his work with pre-law students at ELAC. In his class, his students discover their strengths from their diversity and use pedagogical strategies to harness the power of their unique backgrounds. "I tell my students that everything about them – whether they are undocumented, have a physical disability, or were formerly incarcerated – are the strengths that will help them become the awesome champions for immigrants, the disabled/differently-abled, and system-impacted communities," said Chaiprasert.

"Our entire LACCD community congratulates and is extremely proud of ELAC Professor Kenneth Chaiprasert's selection for this prestigious statewide award from the Board of Governors. This stellar recognition truly highlights his gift for teaching and his profound impact on students," said Chancellor Francisco C. Rodriguez. "This award also illustrates the transformative work of faculty who go above and beyond to create engaging and rigorous teaching and learning environments."

"I am very proud of all the work that Professor Chaiprasert has done here at ELAC. This award speaks to his dedication, leadership and ethic of care for our students. It further illustrates the unwavering commitment of our employees, which is a core characteristic of who we are and part of the fabric of our institution. I am continuously inspired by Professor Chaiprasert's devotion and passion for helping every student reach their full potential and his commitment to advancing social justice and racial equity for our most underserved students." said ELAC President Alberto J. Roman.

"Ken's heart is all in when it comes to our students. He inspires them to reach heights beyond their confidence levels. So that they can be that awesome attorney, judge or legal scholar. He truly exemplifies the dedication to student empowerment practiced by the faculty of East Los Angeles College and the entire Los Angeles Community College District," said ELAC Academic Senate President Jeffrey Hernandez. "Ultimately, by transforming lives, Ken is advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion for our students and our community.

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Established in 1989 and sponsored annually by the Foundation for California Community Colleges, the Hayward Award honors full-time and part-time community college faculty who are selected by their peers for demonstrating the highest level of commitment to their students, college and profession. Award recipients, who are nominated by their college and selected by representatives of the Academic Senate for California Community Colleges, must have a record of outstanding performance of professional activities as well as a record of active participation on campus.

ELAC's Academic Senate will be hosting a reception for professor Chaiprasert on Tuesday, April 11, 12:45pm at G7-102. All are welcome to attend to congratulate him.