Padavan Honors Pauline Chu as 2008 "Woman of Distinction"

New York State Senator Frank Padavan (Queens) honored Pauline Chu, President of the Chinese American Parents Association, as a 2008 “Woman of Distinction” during an award ceremony at the State Capital on Tuesday June 3rd. 

The prestigious award honors women throughout New York state for service to their community and their personal and professional excellence. Women of Distinction honorees come from all walks of life and are recognized for their courage, integrity and perseverance in improving the lives of New Yorkers. 

Chu, a resident of Flushing, founded the Chinese-American Parents’ Association (CAPA) in 1986. For over twenty years, Ms. Chu has served as President of CAPA and has assisted thousands of immigrant families in assimilating and establishing homes in the Flushing area. Ms. Chu has made CAPA as one of the leading community organizations serving as a liaison for Chinese-American parents with local schools, aiding families with their children’s school placement, course selection and daily activities. 

“For years, Pauline has been an outstanding leader in the Queens community,” Padavan said. “Her tireless dedication and energy has helped countless families in the advancement of their children education. Pauline is a true champion and has been instrumental in ensuring our children have a first-class education today and for years to come. It is a privilege and honor for me to bestow this prestigious award to Pauline and look forward to years of continued partnership in working together toward bright futures for our children.”   

Ms. Chu has served Community School Board 25 of Queens as Vice President and eventual rose to President. During her tenure at Community School Board 25, the district’s children scored high on standardized tests and receive recognition from the New York State Council on the Arts.   As President of the School Board, Chu worked with local elected officials to reduce classroom overcrowding by adding more classrooms for all grade levels.

In 2004, Ms. Chu was one of two Asian members appointed to the District 25 Community Education Council by the Queens Borough President. In this capacity, she oversees the District’s administration and budget review and has helped bridge the gap between the district office, schools and parents. 

Ms. Chu’s extensive service to the community also includes her involvement with the American Red Cross, the New York Gouvenor’s Lions Club, the Chancellor’s Taskforce for the School Construction Authority, the League of Women Voters and the Chinese American Voter’s Association. She has also received numerous awards for her unwavering commitment to the community including those from the Anti-Defamation League, the Organization of Chinese Americans and the Offices of the New York City Comptroller and Public Advocate. 

 “I am deeply honored to be joining numerous women from throughout the state as a ‘2008 Woman of Distinction’,” Pauline Chu said. “I extend my gratitude to Senator Padavan for bestowing this honor to me and thank him for his dedication and support of our shared goal in ensuring our children have the highest standard of education that will prepare them for the future.”