WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Asian Pacific American Legal Resource Center (APALRC) has named Barbara Laur as its Interim Executive Director, effective December 6, 2010.  In this capacity, Ms. Laur will oversee daily finances and operations, lead fundraising efforts, and assist with the search for a permanent executive director.  The APALRC's Board of Directors also elected Curtis Lu as the new Chairperson, effective December 10, 2010.  APALRC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the legal and civil rights of Asian Americans in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan region through direct legal services, education, and advocacy.

Ms. Laur brings to the APALRC Interim Executive Director position an array of professional skills and experiences.  She has nearly 30 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit sector, and has served as a permanent full-time executive for over a dozen years.  Over the past 5 years, Ms. Laur has assisted 8 different nonprofit organizations in the D.C. metropolitan region as Interim Executive Director. 

"Barbara came strongly recommended as someone who could step into this role immediately, and provide the high level skills in communication and collaboration, both of which are essential for APALRC at this time.  She has a keen grasp of the opportunities and challenges involved in nonprofit management in times of critical leadership changes," said Mytrang Nguyen, immediate past Board Chairperson.  She added, "I am also very excited that our board has elected Curtis Lu as the new Chairperson.  Since joining the board, Curtis has provided invaluable support and dedication to the organization and its mission, and I strongly believe he will provide the critical strategic guidance during the APALRC's transition period."

Mr. Lu is the General Counsel of LightSquared and is responsible for advising on all legal matters affecting the company.  Mr. Lu has served on the Board of Directors of APALRC for the past few years, and has been actively involved in the Asian Pacific American community affairs through various roles.

  "I am truly honored for this wonderful opportunity to serve as the Chair of the APALRC's Board, and look forward to working closely with Barbara and our staff as we move forward," said Mr. Lu.  He added, "I am also very grateful to Mytrang for her contributions and dedication to APALRC over the years, and on behalf of the board, want to thank her deeply for her outstanding work as board chair."