Tom Yu, a 1996 graduate of the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, recently returned to campus to speak at the Asian American Cultural Center’s Food for Thought program. Part of the center’s Lunch-on-Us series, the weekly noontime discussion focuses on topics relevant to the Asian American community and creates opportunities for students to engage in meaningful conversations with alumni and community leaders. During the program, Yu shared insights from his career with the City of Champaign and reflected on the experiences that shaped his professional journey.
Yu’s visit gave students the opportunity to ask questions, explore careers in public service, and connect classroom learning with real-world community impact. His message emphasized the importance of civic engagement, leadership, and staying connected to the community. Programs like Food for Thought continue to strengthen the student experience by fostering belonging, mentorship, and connections between Illinois students and alumni.
