Yan Liang is the Family Engagement Coordinator at the BCNC Acorn Center for Early Education and Care, where she actively supports immigrant families. Yan was a recipient of a scholarship from Stanley Chen, a BCNC Legacy Donor while she was volunteering at BCNC. Inspired by mentors like Stanley Chen, after earning her master’s degree in early childhood education from UMass Boston, she returned to BCNC to give back to the community that helped her thrive.

Can you share a bit about your background and how your journey began in the U.S.?

Yan: I was born in Guangdong Province, China, and immigrated to the United States with my family when I was just fifteen. Arriving here, I barely spoke English and felt lost. It was a tough transition, but I eventually found a sense of belonging through my studies at UMass Boston, particularly in the Asian American Studies program. My mentor, Dr. Peter Kiang connected me with BCNC provided me an opportunity to work as a volunteer at Acorn Center for Early Education and Care, and this opportunity has planted a seed of passion for early childhood in my heart and inspired me to further my education and profession.

What inspired you to pursue a career focused on supporting immigrant families.?

Yan: My experiences growing up shaped my passion for helping others. Early on, I volunteered at the Acorn Center for Early Education and Care, which sparked my love for early childhood education. Working with immigrant families, I realized the power of being bilingual and the importance of cultural identity. It became my mission to provide support, especially for families navigating the complexities of the special education system.

Q: A significant part of your journey involved Mr. Stanley Chen. Can you tell us about your relationship with him and how he impacted your life?

Yan: Mr. Chen was an incredible mentor and supporter. I met him in 2010, when he reached out to help students like me through financial support for education. His kindness extended beyond monetary help. He even helped my family during a difficult time when my father was recovering from an accident. His approach made us feel respected and valued. Mr. Chen not only provided financial support for my master’s degree but also encouraged me to pursue my passion for education. When I graduated in 2022, I accepted a position as the Family Engagement Coordinator at the Acorn Center. He believed in me and often said, “When you’re successful, that means I am successful.” His encouragement motivated me to give back to the community, which is what I strive to do every day. To Mr. and Mrs. Chen, thank you so much for planting a good seed in me and making a difference in my life. I will continue to bloom and give back to the community. 

Q: Can you share a specific instance where you felt you made a difference in a family's life?

Yan: Recently, I worked with a Chinese-speaking family whose child was diagnosed with Autism. The mother was overwhelmed and felt hopeless. Drawing from my personal experiences and professional background, I was able to guide her through the Boston Public School system, ensuring her child received the necessary evaluations and services. The joy and relief on her face when she realized she wasn’t alone was incredibly rewarding. It reinforced my belief in the importance of community support.

Q: In reflecting on your journey, what message would you like to share with others?

Yan: I want to emphasize the importance of giving back and supporting one another. I am who I am today because of the support I received from Mr. Chen, Dr. Peter Kiang, and others in my community. Their kindness inspired me to help immigrant families find their voices and navigate their challenges. As I continue to bloom in my career, I hope to plant seeds of hope and support for others, just as I was supported.