In recognition of the longstanding dedication of Tseng Weikang, an advisor to the New York Chinese Public Society, to community prosperity and the promotion of international exchanges, the Overseas Compatriot Affairs Commission of the Republic of China has awarded him the “Haihua Honorary Medal” as a token of appreciation. The award ceremony took place at 6 p.m. on April 20th at the Xi Yun Lai Banquet Hall in Manhattan’s Chinatown, with Commissioner Xu Jiaqing of the Overseas Compatriot Affairs Commission presenting the award. Chairman Zhu Chaoran of the Chinese Public Society and Chief Lee Zhiqiang of the Economic and Cultural Office in New York also attended the event.
The “Haihua Honorary Medal” is established by the Overseas Compatriot Affairs Commission to reward individuals both domestically and internationally who are enthusiastic about overseas compatriot affairs and support the Republic of China. Advisor Tseng Weikang has been dedicated to public diplomacy, international exchanges, and community service, thereby contributing significantly to advancing the interests of the Republic of China.
The organizers noted that Advisor Tseng Weikang, a second-generation Chinese American born in the United States, has been actively involved in the affairs of New York’s Chinatown. He has served as an auxiliary police officer at the 5th Precinct of the New York City Police Department for 23 years, responsible for assisting in public safety and police-community relations in Chinatown. He has received multiple commendations, including the “Best Auxiliary Police Officer” award. In the aftermath of the pandemic, he has been instrumental in revitalizing Chinatown and has spared no effort in helping the overseas Chinese community recover and prosper.
In 2019, Advisor Tseng Weikang advocated for the permanent installation of a statue of the founding father Sun Yat-sen in Columbus Park in Chinatown, a historically significant event. The unveiling ceremony of the statue was presided over by then-Commissioner Wu Xinxing of the Overseas Compatriot Affairs Commission, and the former Mayor of New York, Bill de Blasio, also attended, symbolizing the steadfast support of the New York Chinese community for the Three Principles of the People and the values of democracy and freedom.
From 2022 to 2024, Advisor Tseng Weikang served as the Chairman of the 67th New York Chinese Public Society and concurrently held the position of Chairman of the New York Chinese School, becoming the youngest chairman in the society’s half-century history. During his two-year term, he donated all his salary to the Chinese School to promote education and cultural heritage, demonstrating a spirit of selfless dedication.