APSEA started in 1975 as a statewide organization for state employees. In 1988, members in southern California, under the leadership of Ed Kurata (president) from the department of Rehabilitation, began meeting to determine how members in the southern part of the state could increase their efforts toward meeting the organization's goals. With the support of Dr. Steven Shon, APSEA statewide president, the southern chapter was born with the first elections in January 1989. Other members of the charter group included Gerald Shue (vice president), Edwin Stone III (recording secretary), and Arthur Young (corresponding secretary) from Caltrans; Barbara and Earl Nishimura of the Lottery; David Ikeda from Justice; Paul Wu and Huey Dovan of Patton State Hospital; and Kathryn Matsumoto for Rehabilitation. Rossia Cheng was elected treasurer.

The southern chapter encompasses the nine southernmost counties in the state, ranging from the US-Mexican Border to Santa Barbara to the Nevada state line and from the Colorado River to the Pacific Ocean.

In addition to representing members who need assistance with employment problems or information to support their careers, the chapter presents scholarships to qualified students, participates in the Los Angeles Lotus festival, sponsors developmental workshops, organizes a chapter picnic, and a conducts a variety of other activities. In May 2001, as part of the celebration of Asian-Pacific Heritage month, the chapter hosted a leadership awards ceremony, in Los Angeles, for state government officials.

Members are encouraged to attend meetings and run for office or work on any of the various committees which operate throughout the year. See the chapter calendar for information about meetings and other events.

For additional information please see the chapter newsletter or contact any officer or committee chair. The southern chapter mailing address is listed above.

Chapter Presidents
January-June 30, 1989 Ed Kurata
1989-90 Gerald Shue
1990-91 David Ikeda
1991-92 Barbara Nishimuri
1992-93 Neal Shigemitsu
1993-94 Christy Hui Shaw
1994-95 Henry Quock
1995-96 Ed Kurata
1996-97 Tom Moy
1997-98 Tom Moy
1998-99 Tom Moy
1999-2000 Charles Lee
2000-01 Charles Lee*
2000-01 Benjamin Antioquia
2001-02 George Soo Hoo
2003-05 Mildred M. Yamada
* Resigned mid-term and organized central California Chapter