Executive Committee
Jessica Huang
Co-Executive Director
Mason, OH
The Ohio State University
When I entered college, I heard about the amazing experiences that people had at other Asian targeted conferences, such as MAASU or VIA-1, but wanted one specifically for Chinese culture. When MCASA-to-be members reached out, I was happy to hear that other people/schools around the Midwest were interested in a similar idea. I was excited to help create a space for others to come together and share their experiences and how different organizations celebrated Chinese culture at their respective schools.
Rebecca Yang
Co-Executive Director
Jackson, MI
Michigan State University
I wanted to make a difference in the lives of Chinese Americans and those interested in Chinese culture. Through MCASA, I have been able to connect students from across the Midwest to fight for advocacy, learn about Chinese culture, and share struggles of being a Chinese American. Some Universities may not have Chinese organizations, but through MCASA, we are able to create space that allows for others to find their identity.
Doreen Pang
Logistics Chair
Saline, MI
Michigan State University
I attended the past MCASA conference at MSU this past February, and there, I was exposed to a wonderful group of diverse leaders. The conference inspired me to apply for this position in hopes that I can assist in making the positive changes that MCASA seeks to make.
Andrew Walker
Co-Activities Chair
Minnetonka, MN
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
Last year as workshop coordinator, I walked between the workshop rooms to check in and assist the workshop leaders. While I did this, I got the chance to sit in on parts of each of the workshops. The workshop leaders' excitement was contagious and it was fun seeing the participants engage with each other. Getting to witness the range of workshops come to life at conference was definitely my favorite part.
Henry Zhou
Co-Activities Chair
Canton, MI
Michigan State University
I joined MCASA because I wanted to bring the Midwest Chinese American community into coalition. I hope I can do my part on Executive Committee and bring people together through virtual events and the spring conference.
Alice Liu
Co-Workshop Chair
Chicago, IL
University of Michigan
I joined MCASA because I believe that it is important to unify the Chinese American community through education and action. Since I’ve been involved with A/PIA organizations on my own campus, I also wanted to support and connect with other schools as well. As a part of EC, I hope to help foster meaningful conversations about issues within the community and beyond.
Teresa Liu
Secretary
Columbus, OH
The Ohio State University
I joined MCASA on Executive Committee because I want to be able to spread awareness about Chinese culture on a professional level.
Jerry Jiang
Finance Chair
Woodbury, MN
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
I joined MCASA in order to be a part of something bigger, and to help connect the relatively isolated pockets of Chinese culture that exist at universities across the Midwest.
Amanda Ngu
Public Relations Chair
Eden Prairie, MN
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
I had such a positive experience at the conference in Michigan State, I wanted to take part in organizing the next one. I hope to be able to unite individuals across the Midwest and have them share their experiences as Chinese Americans. This conference also expanded my network immensely and I want to continue creating a space where people can connect.
Stephen Wan
Professional Development Chair
Dayton, OH
The Ohio State University Alumnus
The 2020 MCASA Conference really struck a note with me, because this was my first real experience meeting with many other Chinese Americans outside of my school, my state, and my own social circles. It was really great and empowering being able to share our backgrounds and our overlooked struggles as a Chinese American, and I appreciated the support we've given to each other as such. That is why I would like to be involved in this social group, and I hope to improve upon next and future MCASA conferences to provide an even better experience for our community!
Megan Jiang
Creative Chair
Columbus, OH
The Ohio State University Alumna
I joined MCASA EC because it was a great way for me to connect with other Chinese organizations from around the Midwest. Attending MCASA conferences in the past has shown me how welcoming and open they are to their attendees and I want to give back to those who will be in the same boat. Before entering college, I never got the chance to learn about Chinese culture and traditions, so being on the EC of an organization that strives to celebrate our culture and spread awareness is something I am extremely proud to be apart of.
Peter Fung
Advocacy Chair
Pittsburgh, PA
University of Pittsburgh
Going to the MCASA conference in 2020, I found myself in a surprisingly small, but very comfortable group of people. I got the opportunity to meet a lot of new people and really connect with them, and make new friends. I loved how the environment was super friendly and it really helped enrich the learning experience. As someone who cares a lot about advocacy, this environment made it very comfortable to talk to others about topics on social issues. I am super excited to be on Executive Committee and help continue to foster this safe and friendly environment.
Graduate Council
Michelle Fan
Chicago, IL
University of Michigan Alumna
My favorite MCASA memory was the 2020 Spring Conference! It was the first time all of EC was able to be together in person after countless video chats, and it was so rewarding to see all of our planning come to fruition. It was also amazing to see new relationships being built and to see important topics, such as Chinese American history and civic engagement, being discussed in workshops.
Vicky Lee
Prior Lake, MN
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities Alumna
I re-joined MCASA this year because after taking a year off from student group, I realized how much I missed the interaction and the community. Being part of MCASA year one was eye opening and super fun. I learned so much from everyone and met the most welcoming group of people. I want to see MCASA continue to flourish and by being on GC, I could provide the aide when needed but also be able to step back and watch it grow.
Michelle Li
Solon, OH
The Ohio State University Alumna
My favorite memory would the be going to the workshop about Asian American history. It was funny because later they came out with a documentary about Asians in American for APIDA heritage month and it was cool that I had a solid background on it. Generally, I think meeting new people and helping out with some events and planning has always been fun as well.
James Liu
Saint Johns, MI
Michigan State University Alumnus
AT Still University - Osteopathic Medical School
My favorite MCASA memory has to be both of the conferences I attended. After working virtually throughout the year to plan the conference, it’s always so nice to able to meet and get to know your EC better in person.
Jordan Peyton
Fort Worth, TX
Kansas State University
I joined MCASA initially because I wanted to help create a community where Chinese-Americans can come together in the Midwest. I continue to stay on EC and eventually became a GC member because I want to continue supporting MCASA.