Judith Chin, Coordinator of Strategic Development at TC’s Reading & Writing Project, was elected by the New York State Legislature to the state’s Board of Regents, which sets education policy for the state. Chin fills a Queens vacancy and is one of four newcomers and three incumbents to be elected.

Chin is the first Asian-American member named to the Board of Regents in its 231-year history. The daughter of Chinese immigrants, Chin spoke no English when she began kindergarten in New York City schools. That experience taught her “how challenging it must be, how frightening it must be to be a young child on the first day of school in the American school system and not able to speak a word of English,” Chin told legislators who interviewed her for the job at a public meeting in February. “I feel that my life experiences really shaped my experience as an educator.”

Chin started her teaching career in East Harlem in 1972 and subsequently rose through the ranks at the New York City Department of Education, where she held a variety of posts, including supervising superintendent for the City. She recently retired after 35 years of service.

At the Reading & Writing Project, she develops strategic resources and initiatives that facilitate medium- and long-term growth strategies.

Established by the New York State Legislature in 1784, the Regents of The University of the State of New York form the oldest, continuous state education entity in America. The 17-member Board of Regents – one from each of the State's 13 judicial districts and four members who serve at large – are elected by state legislators for unpaid, five-year terms. They are led by Chancellor Merryl H. Tisch.

For a Chalkbeat New York story about Chin’s election, go here.

Published Wednesday, Mar. 11, 2015