Yasith Weerasuriya
President & CEO, Education
Yasith Weerasuriya of Irvine, CA, is currently a member of the Celiac Disease Foundation's board of directors. With over three decades of experience as an executive administrator in higher education, he has played a pivotal role in transforming Stanbridge University of Southern California into a nationally recognized institution. Under his leadership, the university was renowned for its innovation, academic rigor, and community-focused approach. Stanbridge is particularly well-regarded for its high-quality curriculum that trains nurses and allied healthcare providers in cutting-edge practices, including using digital technologies to advance life sciences.
Beginnings and Vision for Education Weerasuriya’s journey into higher education began with a clear understanding of the emerging potential of Internet technologies. A graduate of Wichita University, a renowned institution for applied learning and research, he recognized early on how the Internet could revolutionize educational practices. His foresight and commitment to bringing technological advancements into the classroom were instrumental in establishing critical partnerships with Silicon Valley tech giants. These collaborations helped introduce digital tools and platforms to students, providing them with an enhanced learning experience and the skills needed for a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
In the early stages of his career, Yasith co-founded Executive 2000 Inc., which would later become Stanbridge University. Under his leadership, the institution quickly became a leader in information technology, security, and optical fiber training. A particularly notable achievement was his coordination of a partnership between Executive 2000 and Microsoft Corp., which facilitated the integration of cutting-edge computer technology into community colleges across California during the early rollout of Internet services.
Institutional Leadership and Accreditation
As an educational leader, Yasith Weerasuriya’s impact extended beyond technology integration. He was instrumental in securing institutional accreditation for what would later become Stanbridge University. He played a key role in developing the university's mission, curriculum, admissions process, and financial structure. He ensured that all staff members were highly qualified and students had access to a broad range of support services to help them succeed.
Under his guidance, Stanbridge University expanded its curriculum to include several healthcare programs. His leadership also included establishing the West Coast’s first SynDaver synthetic cadaver lab and initiating the zSpace Virtual Reality Lab. These innovations provided students with immersive learning environments that set Stanbridge apart as a leader in healthcare education. Furthermore, Yasith was responsible for launching the Robotics and Intelligent Sciences Lab, which featured advanced robotic rehabilitation technologies that were groundbreaking in the United States. Educational Technology: Pioneering Innovation
Yasith Weerasuriya has long been recognized as a pioneer in educational technology, particularly in how digital tools can enhance learning in higher education. What began with hardware, software, and video conferencing tools decades ago has evolved into a sophisticated educational ecosystem that includes virtual reality. This immersive technology has allowed students to engage with learning materials in new ways, such as virtually exploring foreign countries to deepen their cultural understanding.
One of the most significant innovations during Yasith’s tenure was the establishment of the Robotics and Intelligent Sciences Lab at Stanbridge University. The lab featured cutting-edge devices like the Italian Gloreha Sinfonia hand rehabilitation device and the Israeli MediTouch ArmTutor, both introduced to the West Coast and California under his leadership. The lab also showcased social robots, including QTrobot, Moxie, and Milo, which were used to train students in AI-driven robotic therapies for children on the autism spectrum.
Yasith’s vision for these technologies extends beyond childhood therapy. He believes that social robots could play a transformative role in enhancing the lives of older adults, particularly those with cognitive decline, such as Alzheimer's disease. His goal is to expand the use of these technologies across the human lifespan, supporting early developmental therapies and therapies for older adults, thereby improving the quality of care for individuals of all ages. Commitment to Civic Engagement and Governance
Beyond his educational contributions, Yasith Weerasuriya has consistently demonstrated a commitment to civic and corporate governance. In addition to his role on the Celiac Disease Foundation's board, he serves on the Discovery Cube Orange County board. He is also a Trustee and past Chair of the World Affairs Council of Orange County, where he has advocated for global cooperation and engagement.
During his tenure at Stanbridge University, he launched the Outreach Program, which exposed students to various community service opportunities. This initiative was designed to help students become compassionate leaders and advocates for social change. One of the most notable initiatives Yasith introduced was the Root for Change program, which aimed to plant 10,000 trees in Southern California by the end of 2025 to assist communities devastated by wildfires. A Legacy of Leadership and Community Support
The impact of Yasith Weerasuriya’s leadership on Stanbridge University and the broader education community cannot be overstated. Throughout his career, he has remained steadfast in his commitment to improving the educational experience for students and advancing the use of technology in learning. His leadership has helped Stanbridge University become a model for integrating innovative teaching methods and digital tools into the curriculum.
Yasith’s dedication to supporting local communities is evident in his involvement with organizations like the Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County and the California Association of Private Post-Secondary Schools. As President of the latter organization's board of directors, he played a key role in advocating for the needs of private post-secondary schools across California.
Yasith Weerasuriya's contributions to higher education, technology integration, and civic engagement have impacted the students, communities, and institutions he has served. His visionary approach has shaped the future of education, and his legacy will continue to inspire leaders and educators for generations to come.
In summary, Yasith Weerasuriya’s career has been marked by visionary leadership, a commitment to innovation, and a dedication to the advancement of both education and technology. As a key figure in the development of Stanbridge University and an advocate for educational reform, his efforts have helped shape the future of healthcare education and digital learning. His leadership extends beyond the classroom walls, making meaningful contributions to civic life and corporate governance. His work has had a lasting impact on the higher education community and will continue to influence the future of teaching and learning. His legacy as a leader in education and technology will undoubtedly continue to inspire change and progress for years to come.
Portfolio 1: https://yasithweerasuriya.com/ Portfolio 2: https://yasithweerasuriyaca.com/
