Samuel James Hyun
Washington,NH
Summary
Dynamic leader with extensive experience in government relations and advocacy, notably as Director at The Asian American Foundation. Proven track record in securing federal funding and driving strategic partnerships. Skilled in political strategy and coalition building, with a passion for empowering communities through impactful storytelling and public engagement.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Government Relations & Sports Division
The Asian American Foundation
01.2023 - Current
- Lead federal, state, and municipal advocacy strategy for the largest AAPI-serving philanthropy in the U.S.
- Manage government engagement with the White House, Congress, U.S. Conference of Mayors and the National Conference of State Legislatures.
- Drive national strategy and partnerships at the intersection of sports, culture, and policy, expanding TAAF's influence nationally.
- Represent the organization in high-level government, civic, and philanthropic forums.
Co-Founder
1587 Sneakers
01.2021 - Current
- Company Overview: Launched the first Asian American-owned sneaker brand featured on Shark Tank.
- Scaled brand through partnerships with investors, celebrities, and influencers.
- Directed product design, lead fundraising efforts, marketing, and strategic growth while integrating cultural storytelling.
Public Speaker
Campuspeak, Evergreen Speakers
01.2021 - Current
- Keynote speaker on identity, leadership, and advocacy for universities, corporations, and national conferences.
Director of Federal Relations
City of Boston, Office of the Mayor
Boston, USA
01.2022 - 01.2023
- Secured millions in federal grants and earmarks for Boston.
- Advised Mayor and Cabinet on national policy strategy.
- Strengthened the city's presence in Washington, DC through congressional and administration partnerships.
Political Director
Campaign to Elect Sonia Chang-Díaz for Governor
01.2021 - 01.2022
- Designed and executed statewide political strategy.
- Managed endorsements, coalition-building, and candidate call time.
Communications Manager
Hate Is A Virus
01.2020 - 01.2021
Podcast Co-Host
#IamNotAVirus
01.2020 - 01.2021
Executive Director
Korean American Citizens League
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Directed operations and a statewide legislative internship program.
Legislative Aide to Speaker Robert DeLeo
Massachusetts State House
Boston, USA
01.2015 - 01.2019
Co-Founder & Program Leader
01.2020
Education
MBA - Social Impact Concentration
Brandeis University, Heller School for Social Policy & Management
01.2021
MPP - Poverty Alleviation Concentration
Brandeis University, Heller School for Social Policy & Management
01.2021
B.A. - History
Allegheny College
01.2014
Skills
- Government Relations & Advocacy
- Political Strategy & Campaigns
- Public Speaking & Media Engagement
- Nonprofit & Philanthropic Leadership
- Entrepreneurship & Brand Development
- Coalition Building & Partnerships
Other Leadership Roles
- Co-Founder & Program Leader, Ignite NextGen, 2020
- Communications Manager, Hate Is A Virus, 01/01/20, 01/01/21
- Podcast Co-Host, #IamNotAVirus, 01/01/20, 01/01/21
- Legislative Aide, Speaker Robert DeLeo, Massachusetts State House, 01/01/15, 01/01/19
Leadership And Recognition
- Chairperson / Commissioner, Massachusetts Asian-American Commission, 01/01/20, 01/01/22
- Co-Founder, 1587 Sneakers (Featured on Shark Tank), 01/01/21, Present
- Board Member, National Association of Asian American Professionals
- Boston Globe's 2021 Bostonian of the Year, (AAPI Advocate), 2021, Top 50 Unsung Heroes, Asian Hustle Network, 2021, 40 Under 40, National Association of Asian Pacifics in Politics & Public Affairs, 2022, Tiktok 2025 50 Change Makers
Accomplishments
- 2021 Bostonian of the Year (AAPI Advocate)
- 2025 TikTok 50 Change Makers awardee
- Bostons 2034 Top 15 Emerging Leaders for Most Influential AAPI
- Asian Hustle Network 2021 Top 50 Unsung Heroes
- National Association of Asian Pasifics in Politics and Public Affairs 2022 40 under 40
Languages
English
Native/ Bilingual
Korean
Professional
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Director of Government Relations & Sports Division
The Asian American Foundation
01.2023 - Current
Director of Federal Relations
City of Boston, Office of the Mayor
01.2022 - 01.2023
Co-Founder
1587 Sneakers
01.2021 - Current
Public Speaker
Campuspeak, Evergreen Speakers
01.2021 - Current
Political Director
Campaign to Elect Sonia Chang-Díaz for Governor
01.2021 - 01.2022
Communications Manager
Hate Is A Virus
01.2020 - 01.2021
Podcast Co-Host
#IamNotAVirus
01.2020 - 01.2021
Co-Founder & Program Leader
01.2020
Executive Director
Korean American Citizens League
01.2019 - 01.2020
Legislative Aide to Speaker Robert DeLeo
Massachusetts State House
01.2015 - 01.2019
MBA - Social Impact Concentration
Brandeis University, Heller School for Social Policy & Management
MPP - Poverty Alleviation Concentration
Brandeis University, Heller School for Social Policy & Management
B.A. - History
Allegheny College