On Sept. 24, Small Business Development Corporation of Orange County (SBDC-OC) was privileged to join the Pacific Asian Consortium in Employment (PACE) for its 50th Anniversary Gala at the City Club Los Angeles. SBDC-OC Chief Executive Officer Michael A. Ocasio attended alongside colleagues Jim Ely, President; Nestor Correa, SVP; Richard Lee, SVP, Sylvia Pizarroso, Director of SBDC Finance Center, Armando Romero, President/CEO, EquiPoint Capital Advisors; and Chrissy Soret, Employer Relations Specialist, Network Kinection.

The Master of Ceremonies for the evening was David Ono of ABC7 Eyewitness News.

SBDC-OC was especially proud to be a sponsor of this milestone celebration. Founded in 1975, PACE was created at a time when there was no organization in Los Angeles specifically focused on addressing the employment needs of the Pacific Asian community. What began as a response to a critical community need has, over five decades, grown into an extraordinary comprehensive community development organization serving people and families of all backgrounds.

“What I find particularly meaningful is that, while PACE has expanded its mission and reach, it has never lost sight of its roots or its proud Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage,” Ocasio said.

“Organizations like PACE remind us that economic development is ultimately about people—creating opportunity, strengthening families, building stronger communities, and helping individuals achieve economic independence and mobility. Those values closely align with the mission of SBDC-OC and our commitment to expanding access to capital and opportunity for underserved communities,” he said.

“Congratulations to PACE on 50 remarkable years of service and impact,” Ocasio said. “It was an honor for SBDC-OC to be part of this celebration, and we look forward to seeing what the next 50 years bring.

“Congratulations, PACE! Here’s to the next 50!”