Diane Wong is the Executive Director of J-Sei, a multi-generational and multi-cultural organization rooted in Japanese culture and values of dignity, independence and social connection. J-Sei serves more than 650 elders and their families each year with bilingual case management, visitor programs, transportation services, on-site and delivered meals, educational programs, and a 14-bed assisted living facility. Diane is a recognized leader in the crucially important, but often underfunded, space of compassionate support for older adults. Prior to joining J-Sei, Diane was instrumental in launching four essential community organizations, including the award-winning Alzheimer’s Services of the East Bay.
Diane was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area in a multi-generational household that inspired her lifelong dedication to improving the health and well-being of older adults. Under Diane’s leadership, J-Sei has grown from a stagnant organization into a small but mighty one with an expert staff, board and 150-strong volunteer network serving a growing population. J-Sei recently completed the purchase and renovation of an 18,000 square-foot facility in Emeryville. In advance of its next five-year strategic plan to create more sustainable funding and expanded programs, the time is right for J-Sei’s rock-solid leader to take a sabbatical so she can spend time with her family, adopt a dog, and rest. Diane is also excited about the sabbatical as a growth opportunity for the experienced team she hired and mentored.
Diane says, “After organizing the move into our incredible, one-stop shop building, I turned my attention to creating new services and making sure our seniors were comfortable in the new building. I am now excited to recharge my own batteries so I can return rested to transform our new facility into a senior wellness hub and continue to make a positive impact on the families we serve.”