Economic Development: Local Leaders, Lasting Impact

CEO James Chang welcomed us to the Pasadena Federal Credit Union, where our cohort gathered for an inspiring Economic Development session that spotlighted the resilience shaping Pasadena and Altadena’s business communities.

Kaiy Smith, owner of Stems Catering and Neighbors & Friends in Old Town Pasadena, opened the afternoon by sharing her journey as a small business owner. Kaiy reflected on the challenges and triumphs of nurturing community through local retail, emphasizing the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs and the ripple effect they have on Pasadena’s economic and cultural vitality.

Later, Dr. Julianna Delgado, Cal State professor, Pasadena Planning Commissioner, and dedicated volunteer with the Altadena Chamber of Commerce, led a session on the “Back in Business” initiative. She shared, “Small businesses are the heart of our neighborhoods. Every day, we have the chance to create spaces where people feel seen, connected, and inspired.” The “Back in Business” initiative will be instrumental in helping Altadena businesses rebuild following the devastating Eaton Fire.

The session also featured insights from Teresa Garcia, Senior Project Manager for the City of Pasadena’s Economic Development team, who discussed current initiatives shaping Pasadena’s economic future and fielded questions from the cohort about how to spur the local economy.

Finally, James Ku (‘24), Chief Development Officer at Panda Restaurant Group and current LP Board Treasurer, spoke about the challenges and opportunities in domestic and international business. James offered a global perspective on how Pasadena’s economy connects to broader markets and the importance of strategic leadership in navigating these complexities.

Participants left these sessions energized and inspired, ready to apply these lessons in their own leadership journeys.