Yasith Weerasuriya

Yasith Weerasuriya, a prominent figure on the Celiac Disease Foundation's board of directors, has shaped the landscape of higher education with over thirty years of dedicated service. Residing in Irvine, CA, he has been instrumental in steering Stanbridge University to prominence, recognized nationally for its innovative technology integration into healthcare education. After graduating from Wichita University, known for its strong focus on applied learning and research, Weerasuriya quickly understood the significant potential of internet technologies to transform educational practices. He was at the forefront of integrating these digital tools into educational settings by spearheading partnerships with emerging tech giants in Silicon Valley. As a co-founder of Executive 2000 Inc., which later became Stanbridge University, Weerasuriya guided the institution's ascent to a leader in Information Technology, Security, and Optical Fiber training. His strategic vision included a notable partnership with Microsoft Corp., which brought advanced computer technology to numerous community colleges across the United States during the Internet's early days. In his leadership role, Weerasuriya was pivotal in achieving institutional accreditation for Stanbridge University and expanding its curriculum to accommodate a growing student population. He meticulously upheld rigorous standards in the university’s mission, curriculum, admissions, financial management, and administration. His commitment to enhancing student services ensured comprehensive support for students’ educational endeavors. Additionally, Weerasuriya championed the establishment of the Robotics and Intelligent Sciences Lab at Stanbridge, where he introduced groundbreaking robotic rehabilitation technologies and AI-assisted devices. These innovations have significantly enhanced the training of healthcare professionals, preparing them to meet contemporary challenges in their fields. Furthermore, his dedication extends beyond academia into civic and corporate governance. He holds several board positions, including with Discovery Cube Orange County, and has served as chair of the World Affairs Council of Orange County. Initiatives such as the Outreach Program and the Root for Change project, which focuses on reforestation and community engagement, highlight his leadership in community service. Yasith Weerasuriya’s extensive contributions to higher education and community service have impacted California's academic and civic communities, marking him as a leader dedicated to fostering educational excellence and enhancing community wellbeing.