台美大學生跨校際協會2005手冊
Author Rutgers University
Dear Conference Attendees,
On behalf of the Rutgers University Intercollegiate Taiwanese American Student’s Association executive conference board, we would like to officially welcome everyone to the 2005 East Coast Conference! We would also like to thank you all for your support, and let you know how important it is to the future Taiwanese-American community that you are here today. This weekend will mark a monumental step into the future of our cultural society, as we gather to share experiences, knowledge, and passion for our heritage.
We’re sure that no one here this weekend can deny that we are living and have lived through challenging times; but this is nothing new to us Taiwanese-Americans. Over the years we have weathered many obstacles, while also enjoying periods of prosperity and optimism. February 24-27, 2005 marks the optimism and hope that we all look forward to in our future. Although the road has been rocky, and we are not perfect, putting together this conference has been an experience of a lifetime, and we thank you all for giving us this opportunity.
As the first non-Ivy League University to host the ITASA ECC, we are more than thrilled at the turn out and schedule of programs, workshops, and events. And as you will see as you flip through your program booklet, this weekend is nothing short of a whirlwind of Taiwanese-American heritage, culture, knowledge, and bonding.
We as Taiwanese Americans have come to crossroad along our path to success. As the first generation begins to retire into their quiet lives, our generation is entering the professional world or “real world” as some might like to refer to it. At this point in our paths, the Taiwanese-American community is faced with the difficult prospect of what lies ahead.
Today, Taiwanese Americans are challenged by the need to integrate ourselves into the American society, all the while being expected to continue the work and tradition of the first generation. At this point, the question is raised, “Where are we heading?” “Do Taiwanese Americans forget their heritage and conform to the American way of life or do they hold onto the past and fight for the causes their parents held so dear to their hearts?” Ultimately, and most importantly, the Taiwanese-American community’s ideals and goals must be reviewed and possibly revised in order to succeed future generations in America.
Thus, as the second generation matures, we see that we must be in a state of “perpetual motion” in preparation for the future. Hopefully, we can balance our identity with our ever changing concerns in life by reminding ourselves about history so that future generations do not lose sight of their origins.
We applaud you all for being here this weekend and encourage you to attend other conferences, leadership retreats, and events in your area. ITASA ECC 2005 was designed specifically for you and this association could not be where we are today without your visions, hard work, and support. Please join us in celebrating our heritage this weekend! Attend the educational seminars and workshops, participate in panel discussions, and bond with your fellow Taiwanese-Americans. We encourage you to share your knowledge and experience with each other, the executive board, and the association. ITASA ECC 2005 has much to offer you, so enjoy!
Posted in 2015/07
