In partnership with
Building Bridges and Breaking Barriers: Twenty Five Ventures Sponsors USF’s Second Annual AAPI Night
At Twenty Five Ventures, we believe in the power of representation, community, and opportunity. That’s why we were honored to sponsor the University of San Francisco’s second annual AAPI Night, a celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage that brought together students, professionals, and leaders. This year, we made a conscious effort to be part of the event, ensuring that AAPI voices and stories continue to be heard and supported.
📰 Key Highlights
✅ Community Impact – Thousands gathered to celebrate AAPI culture, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
✅ Honoring Leaders – USF recognized key figures in the AAPI community for their contributions to education, advocacy, and student success.
✅ More Than Just Performances – There was more than ukuleles, APT, and Bruno Mars—this was a night of connection, inspiration, and leadership.
🚀 Making a Conscious Effort to Show Up
Last year, we weren’t actively involved in AAPI on the Hilltop, but we knew that had to change. This year, we made a deliberate move—not just as sponsors, but as hands-on supporters of the students, leaders, and changemakers driving the AAPI community at USF. We kicked off this commitment by contributing to the launch of the E&I Initiative at USF, and as the newly appointed chair of the advisory board, we’re excited to help shape and grow this program.
Why does this matter? Because representation isn’t passive—it’s about showing up, amplifying voices, and ensuring that events like AAPI Night continue to grow and thrive.
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🎖 Recognizing Leaders in the AAPI Community
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of individuals who have positively impacted the AAPI community at USF. This year’s honorees included:
Wei Yang Menkus – Director of Asia Pacific Studies
Kenny Van – Senator, Junior Class Representative
Melissa Ann Canlas – Professor, International and Multicultural Education
Natalie Ryu – Staff, Student Government Team
Andy Chan – Program Manager, AAPI Center
Additionally, Dr. Otgontsetseg “Otgo” Erhemjamts, Dean of the School of Management, and Eileen Fung, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, were recognized for their leadership and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion at USF.
💬 “AAPI Night at USF is about visibility, empowerment, and community. Representation isn’t given—it’s earned. At Twenty Five Ventures, we support this event to invest in the next generation of AAPI leaders who will shape the future. Thank you to USF for creating this space to celebrate and uplift the AAPI community..” – Maximillian Diez, General Partner, Twenty Five Ventures
🌏 A Night of Culture, Connection, and Leadership
Hosted by USF’s Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Student Center, the event featured:
🔹 Cultural Performances – Showcasing traditional and contemporary AAPI artistry.
🔹 Leadership Panels – Discussions on overcoming barriers, entrepreneurship, and success.
🔹 Networking Opportunities – Bringing together students, professionals, and community leaders.
The AAPI Student Center, part of USF’s Intercultural Center, plays a vital role in supporting students through mentorship, advocacy, and programming like Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, Affinity Celebrations, and wellness workshops.
🎯 Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Representation
The success of AAPI Night reinforces its role as more than a celebration—it’s a movement for visibility, leadership, and empowerment.
At Twenty Five Ventures, we’re committed to investing in diverse entrepreneurs and future leaders, ensuring that spaces like this continue to grow, inspire, and create opportunities.
💡 Takeaway: Representation matters, but it requires action. Whether you’re a student, professional, or industry leader—show up, support, and invest in the next generation.
We’re grateful to have been part of this year’s celebration and look forward to strengthening our connection with USF and the AAPI community in the years to come.
On a lighter note On USF’s AAPI Night, powered by Twenty Five Ventures on 1/25/25, the Dons brought the energy on and off the court, rolling past San Diego 81-69 at War Memorial. 🚀
xoxo,
Max Diez, GP - Twenty Five Ventures
P.S. Stay with me on this journey.
If nothing else, thanks for reading.
