On Aug. 21, the Northern New Jersey Chinese Association-Chinese School (NNJCA-CS) Summer Camp concluded with an emotional and energetic graduation ceremony, celebrating a week of Chinese language learning, Taiwanese culture, friendship, and personal growth. For more than 30 years, the NNJCA-CS Summer Camp has provided children with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a joyful and culturally enriching environment.

Shuhui Liao, Deputy Director of the Cultural Center of T.E.C.O. in New York, reflected on the children’s transformation throughout the week: “I was deeply impressed to see the children, after several days of learning, displaying their lively and adorable sides on stage. Their innocent and natural smiles, along with their confident performances, not only showcased the rich learning outcomes of the summer camp but also filled the venue with laughter and a warm atmosphere.”

Nelson Tai, President of the Association of New Jersey Chinese Schools emphasized that Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) provides children with opportunities to learn language and culture while developing friendships and confidence through interaction. “Seeing the children cooperate with each other and bravely express themselves on stage made me realize the important significance of overseas Chinese education activities for children's growth.”

Camp Director and Principal of NNJCA Chinese School Jerry Chen also reflected on the camp’s lasting tradition: “It's been nice to see many familiar faces returning to the summer camp year after year, and see some new faces as well. I truly believe this Chinese Summer Camp should be one of the most memorable activities for a child.”

Jerry Chen added that the camp has continued for more than 30 years and expressed hope that the tradition will continue so children can create lasting memories while being immersed in rich Taiwanese culture—and food.

The camp featured a talented group of instructors who introduced students to a wide range of Taiwanese cultural and recreational activities. Folk Dance teacher Ms. Yu-Ting Wu and Folk Sports teacher Ms. Chun-Hui Tsai, specially dispatched by the OCAC, led students in dance and physical education. Ms. Wu returned to the camp for the third consecutive year, continuing her commitment to sharing Taiwanese performing arts with the next generation.

Other instructors included Karate Master Siemon Wang, Chinese Painting teacher Ms. Lillian Tao, and Arts & Craft teacher Ms. Anita Tung. Together, the teachers created an exciting learning experience that combined traditional culture with creativity and physical activity.

The graduation ceremony featured spectacular student performances. Ms. Wu and Ms. Tsai led students in the energetic dances “Blessings Bring Good Luck!” and “Flags in the Wind.” Students also captivated the audience with “Rhythms in Motion: The Flying Ropes” and “Stars in Motion: Diabolo & Meteor Balls.” Master Siemon Wang guided students in demonstrations of “Peaceful First Stage” and “Peaceful Second Stage” kung fu.

The instructors themselves also took the stage. Ms. Wu performed “Drunken Ink Flowing Cloud,” while Ms. Tsai presented “Passing the Torch: The Art of Diabolo,” adding another memorable highlight to the celebration.

A special feature of this year’s camp was the participation of six Princeton chapter of the Formosa Association for Cultural Ambassadors (FASCA) members who served as teaching assistants. They supported teachers, guided students, organized activities, and helped prepare the graduation performances. They also unleashed their own imagination and creativity by handling team formation, choreography, and production for their own “Showcase” programs. Their involvement demonstrated the leadership, teamwork, and boundless creativity of the new generation of Taiwanese-American youth.

Food was another important part of the cultural experience. Ms. Li-Hui Chen, President of the Northern New Jersey Chinese Association, led a cooking-for-the-homeless group that prepared delicious Taiwanese lunches for the students every day throughout the week. One participant described the meals enthusiastically: “The food they cooked was so yummy we all teared up. The meat was so tender and juicy, the sauces were flavorful, the meals were balanced, and it was all Taiwanese food, which really helped the students experience Taiwanese cuisine.”

The closing ceremony ultimately celebrated more than the completion of a summer camp. It showcased how language, culture, food, arts, sports, service, and youth leadership can come together to create meaningful experiences that children will remember for years to come.
 

Reported by Princeton chapter of the Formosa Association for Cultural Ambassadors (FASCA) – Erin Tu, Ella Tu, Chenhsin Hsu, and Chenyu Hsu