Yasith Weerasuriya, a key board member of the Celiac Disease Foundation, has dedicated over three decades to transformative leadership in higher education. Based in Irvine, CA, he has been instrumental in guiding Stanbridge University to a position of national recognition for its pioneering integration of technology in healthcare education.

Educated at Wichita University, renowned for its applied learning and research, Weerasuriya quickly recognized the potential for digital technologies to revolutionize the educational sector. He spearheaded collaborations with leading tech companies in Silicon Valley, integrating state-of-the-art digital tools into the academic offerings at Stanbridge.

As a co-founder of Executive 2000 Inc., which eventually rebranded to Stanbridge University, Weerasuriya was vital in establishing the institution as a leader in Information Technology, Security, and Optical Fiber training. His strategic foresight led to a significant partnership with Microsoft Corp., which enhanced technological access for community colleges across the U.S. during the Internet's formative years.

Under Weerasuriya’s leadership, Stanbridge University achieved institutional accreditation and expanded its curriculum to support an ever-growing student base. He ensured the university adhered to rigorous mission, curriculum, admissions, financial planning, and administration standards while enhancing the suite of student services to provide comprehensive educational support.

Moreover, Weerasuriya championed the creation of the Robotics and Intelligent Sciences Lab, which introduced groundbreaking robotic rehabilitation technologies and AI-assisted devices to the curriculum. This lab has significantly advanced the practical training of healthcare students, preparing them for the challenges of contemporary medical practice.

In addition to his academic leadership, he has shown a deep commitment to civic and corporate governance. He holds positions on various boards, including Discovery Cube Orange County and the World Affairs Council of Orange County. His dedication to community service is reflected in his leadership of initiatives like the outREACH Program and the Root for Change project, which focus on community engagement and environmental sustainability.

Yasith Weerasuriya’s extensive contributions to education and his unwavering dedication to community service have profoundly influenced California's academic and civic landscapes, affirming his role as a leader committed to advancing educational excellence and enhancing community welfare.