On November 9th, the Northern California Taiwan Providence University Alumni Association held a “Homecoming for Alumni” luncheon at the Grand Hotel in Santa Clara. Both new and old alumni gathered together to share, fundraise, attend scam prevention seminars, and strengthen their alumni community bonds.
The Vice President, Li-Jung Shao, introduced the President, Mei-Ling Zhang, and played a slideshow titled “Beautiful Heritage” to review the 40-year history of the alumni association. In her address, Mei-Ling Zhang highlighted this year’s emphasis on fostering succession, visiting senior alumni, and connecting with younger alumni in addition to holding annual meetings, homecoming events, and club activities. She expressed gratitude to the board of directors, volunteers, and the President of Taiwan Providence University, Ling Siling, for their contributions. In an interview with our reporter, she stated, “Quality over quantity is important; we must firmly pass on the baton of leadership.”
Following the luncheon, Lieutenant Abe Teng of the Santa Leandro Police Department, a friend of the alumni, gave a presentation on “Scam Prevention and Living Securely.” He emphasized the importance of avoiding interactions with suspicious individuals, staying alert to requests for money or personal information, and refusing to use unusual payment methods such as gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrencies, or cash. When faced with pressure to make an immediate decision, he advised pausing, seeking advice from a third party, and making financial decisions calmly. The Q&A session that followed was lively and engaging.
The event then featured alumni sharing their stories: a collective remembrance and acknowledgment of the late former President Chen Hui’s selfless dedication to the alumni association; Vice President Li-Jung Shao shared her seventeen-year dedication to dancing and her perseverance; Chairperson Huang Anli shared insights from a tour of Taiwanese Pu’er tea, showcasing the loving and sharing nature of the Providence community. Eighty-five-year-old alumna Yang Yansheng jokingly expressed that “reunion after a long absence feels most like home,” as she maintains vitality by practicing traditional dance. Likewise, alumna Huang Bingzhen, of the same age, reflected on her journey to the United States since 1961, noting that the alumni family remains her greatest attachment.
The youngest alumna, Jessica Lin, recognized the alumni association hat at a flag-raising event on National Day and decided to join. She mentioned, “Finding a second home in a foreign land feels secure and joyful.” With each story shared, the bond among the alumni grew stronger, fostering a sense of belonging and unity within the extended family of Taiwan Providence University alumni.