Pa Lee Moua (left) and Bo Thao

Fall 2019

Q & A with Two Business Grads and Friends

Pa Lee Moua’s story inspired Bo Thao to pursue her dreams.

Profiles of Success:

Pa Lee Moua is a 2000 graduate of the Administrative Assistant program. She serves as diversity, equity and inclusion officer for the Appleton Area School District and is pursuing a doctorate of philosophy degree in leadership studies.

Bo Thao is a 2009 Administrative Assistant and 2012 Accounting graduate. She is putting two master’s degrees in human resource management and business management to work as human resources administrative assistant for the Neenah Joint School District.

What did you enjoy most at FVTC?

Pa Lee: The diverse learning atmosphere provided more than just academic support. As a first-generation college student, young wife and mother at the time, I received encouragement from multiple people throughout the college.

Bo: Flexibility is top of mind when I think of Fox Valley Tech. I loved learning in various formats like in-person or online while taking classes during the day or evening. The instructors were also huge supporters of my educational journey.

How did FVTC help you empower others?

Pa Lee: Before I met Bo, she read an FVTC alumni story of mine in 2010. She reacted to the article by sending me an email that read: “I have never seen anyone that looked like me, married young and with children, succeed in her career. Your story is so validating and it gives me so much hope and courage.” Her message brought tears. This is why I am a firm believer in the power of representation because personal narratives change perceptions, possibilities and purpose in life.

Bo: When my five-year-old son saw me walk the stage during FVTC’s graduation in 2009, he said he wanted to be like me. I was the first graduate from both sides of my family, so perhaps I planted some inspiration. Soon afterward, three of my family members graduated with college degrees and a fourth is pursuing a criminal justice degree at FVTC.