Written by Sandeep Kumar Mishra, PhD, Co-Chair, Community Engagement, ANY; Associate Research Scientist, Yale University
This year marks a major milestone for the Asian Network at Yale (ANY), as the organization proudly celebrates its 20th anniversary—a celebration of two decades of service, advocacy, and cultural unity within Yale University’s vibrant and diverse community.
Founded in 2006, the Asian Network at Yale (ANY) was established with a clear mission: to connect, inspire, and empower Yale staff and faculty of Asian heritage, and to support the university’s vision of excellence in an increasingly diverse and global landscape.
Originally launched as the Yale Asian Staff Affinity Group, ANY was conceived during a pivotal moment of institutional introspection and transformation. Under the leadership of John Pepper, then Vice President for Finance and Administration, the group was created to provide a space for staff members of Asian descent to build community, share experiences, and collectively elevate their voices within the university setting.
ANY’s formation was part of a broader movement to establish identity-based affinity groups at Yale. In the early 2000s, with visionary leadership from Deborah Stanley-McAulay, Yale’s Associate Vice President for Employee Engagement & Workplace Culture and Chief Diversity Officer, the groundwork was laid for several affinity groups representing historically underrepresented racial and cultural communities. With enthusiastic support from John Pepper, the Yale African American Affinity Group (YAAA) and the Yale Latino Networking Group (YLNG) were also founded around the same time. Together, these groups set the stage for a more inclusive and supportive work environment at Yale.
By 2009, the Yale Asian Staff Affinity Group evolved into what is now known as the Asian Network at Yale (ANY)—a rebranding that reflected its expanded mission, increasing visibility, and growing impact. Over the years, ANY has become a cornerstone of support, advocacy, and celebration for Yale’s Asian-identifying community, hosting educational programs, cultural events, leadership workshops, and community service initiatives. The group has also served as a strong bridge connecting the university’s professional community with broader efforts in equity, diversity, and inclusion.
The success of ANY has been built on strong leadership and institutional support. The first executive sponsors were Andrew Hamilton, then Provost, and Linda Lorimer, Vice President and Secretary of the University. In 2013, Kimberly M. Goff-Crews, Secretary and Vice President for University Life, became the next executive sponsor, continuing Yale’s commitment to nurturing an inclusive campus culture.
“The commitment of ANY to connect, strengthen, and promote the Asian Heritage community at Yale helps make our institution not just a great place to work, but a place where staff thrive. Through a supportive network, ANY celebrates and honors the unique strengths and talents of our Asian Heritage professionals, adding to the rich cultural and social fabric of our university community.” - Kimberly M. Goff-Crews, ‘83 B.A., ‘86 J.D., Secretary and Vice President for University Life at Yale; and Executive Sponsor of ANY
Leadership within ANY has always been thoughtfully curated. The first co-chairs, Anna Maria Hummerstone and Henry Kwan, helped lay a strong foundation for the group’s early development. The appointment of affinity group leaders remains under the guidance of Deborah Stanley-McAulay, whose vision and dedication have been central to the sustained success of Yale’s staff affinity network.
Today, ANY stands as a vibrant and vital part of Yale’s community fabric. It has engaged hundreds of staff, faculty, and researchers through its programming and advocacy, fostering professional development, cultural awareness, and cross-cultural solidarity. As ANY marks this 20-year milestone, the organization honors its legacy while looking ahead to a future filled with renewed purpose and possibility.
To learn more about the Asian Network at Yale and its 20th anniversary events, please visit https://asiannetwork.yale.edu/about-any-0.
View the full photo gallery from the celebration here.
