Central College’s History Club will host a special lecture for the Central community and public at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 7, in the Maytag Student Center Van Emmerik Studio on campus.
Jimmy Suong will share his story as a child survivor of the killing fields under the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia. After immigrating to the U.S., he served in the U.S. military. The 30-year military veteran currently serves as the senior human resources specialist for the Iowa Army National Guard.
Suong is respected as an intercultural leader who brings people of varying cultures together. Through his volunteer efforts, he has influenced public policy and programs for refugees and the Asian Pacific Islander community in Iowa. He serves on the Commission of Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs at the Department of Human Rights by a gubernatorial appointment. He also works with the Iowa International Center.
Madison Price, Class of 2027 communication studies and Spanish majors and co-president of the Central History Club, explains, “History Club is passionate about celebrating stories that often go unheard. We’re thrilled to welcome Mr. Suong to campus and honor his service to our country and the incredible things he has overcome.”
Lori Witt, humanities department chair and associate professor of history, adds, “It is through stories of our past and present that we learn from each other. The History Club is grateful that Mr. Suong is willing to share his story about his childhood, immigrant journey and life in the United States — a story that goes back more than 50 years.”
