First Asian American appointee to head a major criminal prosecution department in Minnesota. Managed over 30 attorneys, staff and other employees in executing all criminal matters for the city of St. Paul under Mayor Randy Kelly. Subsequently appointed Senior Policy Advisor for Mayor’s office.

Former Ramsey County District Court Interpreter

Coordinated and helped develop and maintain the interpreter program in Ramsey County.

Kelly and Fawcett, P.A., Associate Attorney

January 2000 – 2002

Prosecutor for City of Maplewood responsible for misdemeanor prosecutions and civil matters for Mayor and City Council. Also handled personal injury matters for a diverse base of clients and specializing in representation of Hmong community.

U.S. Department of Labor, Minneapolis, MN

January 1999 – January 2000

Investigated and enforced U.S. labor laws.

Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry

January 1998 – January 1999

Investigated and enforced Minnesota labor laws.

Thao & Li Law Firm, Associate Attorney, St. Paul, MN

September 1997 – January 1998

Specialized in worker’s compensation and personal injury law for a diverse client base.

Affiliations

Hmong Council of 18

Currently developing a mediation program in Minnesota with the Hmong Council 18 and Hamline University

Lao Family – Board of Advisors

2006 – 2011

Lo-Pha Society

National chairman as of 2011

St. Paul Chamber of Commerce Charitable Foundation

Former board member

Hamline University Law School

Hmong Cultural Mediation Trainer

American Red Cross (Twin Cities Area Chapter)

Board of Directors

Professional Associations and Memberships

Minnesota State Bar Association, Member