As the associate vice chancellor for Health Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, I have the honor of leading the dedicated teams that work to advance DEI at UC Davis Health.  These include the Office of Heath Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, the Office of Student and Resident Diversity, and the Center for Reducing Health Disparities.  We work to create a climate of inclusion reflected in the health system’s structures, policies, practices, and relationships through transformative education, community partnerships, and collective impact.  

I was formerly the associate dean for faculty development and diversity and the founding medical director of the Transcultural Wellness Center, a community clinic serving the mental health needs of Sacramento’s diverse Asian and Pacific Islander communities. As professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, I formerly led the department’s courses and initiatives for medical student education.

I have received the UC Davis Chancellor’s Achievement Award for Diversity and Community twice, the Dean’s Award for Excellence in Community Engagement, and the Dean’s Inspirational Faculty Educator Award for my work with students, communities, underrepresented groups, and health equity. I also recently received the National Alliance on Mental Illness’ Exemplary Psychiatrist Award for my clinical work and advocacy.

When not working, I enjoy practicing martial arts, building on my cabin in the woods (a never ending project), and enjoying time with my family of humans and animals.

Why I Do DEI Work

Originally from Vietnam, I immigrated to the United States with my family as a refugee. Growing up with experiences of discrimination, food insecurity, and limited access to health care, I appreciate their impact on health and wellness and have made addressing these inequities the center of my life’s work.