With 2023 wrapping up, we say goodbye to four TAP-NY board members. We asked them to reflect on some of their favorite TAP memories and experiences – see below for their thoughts and memories of their time on board!
Kelly Lin, Outgoing President
Cheechee Lin, Outgoing Design/Marketing Chair
Tiffany Wu, Outgoing Social Chair
Reggie Wang, Outgoing Cultural/Tech Chair
Kelly Lin – Outgoing President (TAP-NY Board 2019-2023)
1) What was your favorite TAP memory and why?
There are so many incredible memories from my time on the TAP board, but one of my favorites is the annual TAP-NY Lunar New Year Banquet. This was the first event I hosted as a board member and it was such a rewarding experience to see all the months of work come to fruition. For this event, the entire community comes together to kick off the year with new and old friends over delicious food, fun activities that showcase Taiwanese culture, and of course we can’t forget the complimentary liter of Jameson at each table.
2) How has TAP helped you grow as a person and as a member of this community?
TAP has played such a transformative role in the five years that I’ve been on the board to help shape me into the person I am today. I am so grateful for all the opportunities TAP has offered me to grow as a leader, meet such interesting and talented individuals from all walks of life, connect more deeply with my Taiwanese roots, and make some of the best friends I could ever ask for.
3) What are some words of advice you would give to incoming board members?
Time really flies! Cherish the countless opportunities you’ll have in front of you, the meaningful friendships you’ll form, and the impact you’ll make on the community. Feel empowered to pursue the ideas you are passionate about, as the board/alumni network is here to support and help you push forward your vision.
Cheechee Lin – Outgoing Design/Marketing Chair (TAP-NY Board 2022-2023)
1) What was your favorite TAP memory and why?
There’s been countless wonderful memories with TAP, so it’s hard to pick out a singular moment that stood out! If I had to choose, I would say our most recent OCAC trip to Taiwan was particularly meaningful– to have the opportunity to visit the motherland with a group of folks passionate about their Taiwanese heritage was truly a special experience. I’ll always remember our late night night market runs and evenings spent just hanging out talking about random topics!
2) How has TAP helped you grow as a person and as a member of this community?
I think TAP has truly helped me become a more outgoing, confident version of myself — by giving me a forum to help build community, it in turn also helped me find my voice. Very grateful for the community that TAP has introduced me to, and the opportunity to meet so many of our members, some of whom are now dear friends.
3) What are some words of advice you would give to incoming board members?
Have so much fun!! Board is what you make of it. Can’t wait to cheer you all on from the sidelines ◡̈
Tiffany Wu – Outgoing Social Chair (TAP-NY Board 2023)
1) What was your favorite TAP memory and why?
I have so many fond memories from TAP but if I had to pick one, it would probably be TACL Retreat in Denver. I feel like this was the first time our board got a lot of time to bond with one another, and it was also a lot of fun meeting board members from other chapters! Coming back to visit NYC and celebrating Thanksgiving with current board members and alumni was also a heartwarming experience, as it was a reminder of how I always have this community to come back to 🙂
2) How has TAP helped you grow as a person and as a member of this community?
TAP brings together so many people of different backgrounds and interests, and I’ve been grateful for the experience to learn and interact with such an amazing community. Being Social Chair challenged me to take on the role of bringing people together, and I loved being able to put on events, share my interests (i.e., with my introduction to lifting workshop!), and to bring others together.
3) What are some words of advice you would give to incoming board members?
Spend as much time as you can with others from TAP – the time goes by faster than you’d think!
Reggie Wang – Outgoing Cultural/Tech Chair (TAP-NY Board 2023)
1) What was your favorite TAP memory and why?
Hosting Lunar New Year Banquet! As the song 童话 (Tong Hua) started to play in the background, all 200 diners forgot about their indulgences and sang along in a harmonious intoxicated symphony. It was truly enchanting.
2) How has TAP helped you grow as a person and as a member of this community?
TAP has pushed myself outside my comfort zone in many ways. From meeting strangers to organizing complex events, I’ve learned to embrace discomfort and have fun with the team. I’m grateful for the tremendous love and dedication from this small group of diverse individuals.
3) What are some words of advice you would give to incoming board members?
FULL SEND!