ABOUT US

Learn more about our journey, values, and what drives us forward

History

The International Association of Multicultural & Filipino-American Educators, Inc. (IAM FAME, Inc.) was founded on March 3, 2025, by Arsenio T. Manalo, Myleen P. Legaspi, and Eleuterio F. Timbol Jr. , together with the other incorporators, three visionary educators passionate about fostering a diverse, inclusive, and culturally rich educational landscape. The organization was officially registered in the state of Nevada, with a clear mission to address the needs of both the Filipino-American community and educators advocating for multicultural education advocating for multicultural education glocally.

Founding Vision

IAM FAME, Inc. was founded to preserve Filipino culture and support Filipino-American and multicultural educators. Its founders, based on the West Coast, recognized a lack of outreach and advocacy in the region, as most organizations were established on the East Coast. Driven to bridge this gap, they sought to expand access to resources, conferences, and collaborations, ensuring educators across all regions had equal opportunities for professional growth, cultural awareness, and global impact.

Civic Engagement & Cultural Preservation

IAM FAME, Inc. is committed to civic engagement and preserving Filipino culture in the U.S. and globally. The organization advocates for the inclusion of Filipino-American heritage in education and provides a platform for educators to share resources and strategies. It also supports the Philippine Department of Education (DepEd) by sharing expertise and strengthening educational programs for Filipino educators and students worldwide.

Supporting J-1/H1B Teachers

IAM FAME, Inc. assists J-1 visa teachers from the Philippines in adjusting to U.S. schools by offering cultural support, professional development, and classroom strategy workshops. These efforts help educators thrive in diverse classrooms and bring valuable perspectives to American students.

Collaboration on Multicultural Education

From its early years, IAM FAME, Inc. has built a network of educators, academics, and community leaders to develop inclusive teaching strategies. It hosts conferences and training sessions focused on curriculum development, classroom instruction, and multicultural education, equipping teachers with practical tools to create culturally responsive learning environments.

Expanding Impact Across the U.S. & Beyond

After success on the East Coast, the founders expanded IAM FAME, Inc. to the West Coast to serve the large Filipino-American communities in California, Nevada, and Washington. The organization also extended its mission globally, reaching Filipino educators in Canada, the Middle East, and Asia, ensuring broader access to resources, training, and advocacy efforts.

A Bright Future

After success on the East Coast, the founders expanded IAM FAME, Inc. to the West Coast to serve the large Filipino-American communities in California, Nevada, and Washington. The organization also extended its mission globally, reaching Filipino educators in Canada, the Middle East, and Asia, ensuring broader access to resources, training, and advocacy efforts.

Overall Meaning of the Logo

The IAM FAME, INC. logo symbolizes education, cultural diversity, and community service, reflecting the organization’s mission
to connect, educate, and uplift multicultural communities while honoring Filipino American heritage.
Each element reinforces IAM FAME, INC.’s dedication to empowering educators, fostering diversity,
and promoting global unity in education.

Key Elements & Their Meaning

Globe
Globe – Reflects global education, international collaboration, and
cross-cultural learning
.
Three Stars – Represent IAM FAME’s core pillars:
  • Education – Supporting learning and knowledge-sharing.
  • Culture – Promoting heritage and multicultural understanding.
  • Community Service – Empowering underprivileged individuals.
  • Also symbolizes Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, highlighting Filipino roots.
Circle

Circle – Represents unity, inclusivity, and global reach, connecting diverse educators and communities.

Hands
Hands (Blue, Red, Brown) – Symbolize diversity, collaboration, and support:
  • Blue – Knowledge, wisdom, and trust in education.
  • Red – Passion, strength, and action.
  • Brown – Cultural heritage, inclusivity, and grounded values.
Book
Book – A universal symbol of knowledge, learning, and IAM FAME’s commitment to academic excellence.
Leaves
Leaves – Signify growth, development, and sustainability in education

Leadership Main Chapter

Dr. Arsenio T. Manalo
Founding President
Dr. Eleuterio F. Timbol, JR.

Co-Founding Executive Vice-President

Dr. Myleen P. Legaspi
Co-Founding Vice-President for Development
Edeliza O. Shinbaum
Vice President for Chapter Operations
Melanie Malingin
Executive Secretary
Jean Pierre Dignos
Assistant Secretary
Ma Ismela Nava
Membership Secretary
Dr. Maria Lucia Manalo
Treasurer
Cherry Dawn Cuevas
Assistant Treasurer
Aldwin Felipe
Auditor
Ma. Donata Radaza
Media and Public Relations Officer
Nino Bermoy
Executive Director
Ms. Belinda Strong
Spokesperson

Committees

Edmond Miguel
Nominating and Awards Committee
Mairi Nunag
Special Projects Committee
Joey Vanguardia
By-laws Committee
Liza Grace N. Martinez
Election Committee
Stephanie Geldmacher
Board of Trustees Creation Committee
Alwynne Enriquez
Networking & Fundraising Committee
Dr. Eleuterio Timbol, Jr.
Research and Professional Development Committee
Annalyn Polayopoy
Membership Committee
Reniella P. Perez
Community and Civic Engagement Committee

Board of Directors

Dr. Jake Raymund F. Fabregar
Board of Director
Dr. Marielle Castro-Galvez
Board of Director
Dr. Jennifer Castro
Board of Director
Paulchery Gohetia-Ulloa
Board of Director
Marivic Domingo
Board of Director

Advisers

Dr. Abner Pineda

Overall Adviser

Dr. Leonilo B. Capulso
Adviser/Consultant
Cesar Tiu
Consultant
Development & Operations
Dr. Linc Johnson
International Consultant for Projects & Programs