By Tim Harfmann
Dedicated, hard working and service are some of the words inscribed on awards around Veronica Tsang’s office in Flushing, Queens.
Now, she’s a Shining Star, a prestigious honor presented annually by the Diocese of Brooklyn’s Catholic Migration Services.
“I was pretty humbled when I was selected to be the Shining Star,” Tsang said. “At the same time, it is a great honor for me.”
She was recognized for making exceptional contributions to the Church and her community.
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The Shining Stars go to individuals who are active in their ethnic ministries.
The Chinese Award is the only one bestowed on two people, because the number of Chinese-Americans in the diocese is growing so large.
Tsang is the Queens recipient, dedicated to helping those living in her community.
“Hopefully I’m able to inspire others, especially the new immigrants, to do the same,” Tsang said.
Tsang is executive vice president at Cathay Bank and guided branches in Brooklyn and Queens to great success.
Now, she oversees operations in Cathay ranches from coast to coast.
She came to the United States in the late 1960s, migrating with her parents from their homeland in China.
While a student at Pace University, Tsang worked her way up the corporate ladder at JP Morgan Chase, earning her finance and banking degree at night and also working part-time in a supermarket.
“At the time it was all work, no play. Looking back, it’s hard for me to believe that I did that. I think it’s because I have help from the divine intervention,” Tsang said.
Faith is the most important part of her life.
She’s active at Saint Michael’s Church in Flushing, serving on many committees including the finance council. She’s also a director on the Saint Michael Catholic Academy’s board.
“God gave me energy and wisdom to achieve what I have accomplished, and I do believe that He is still doing this for me every single day. I’m very grateful for that,” Tsang said.
The Chinese-American population in Brooklyn and Queens is accelerating at a rapid rate, up more than 23,000 in recent years.
Tsang has good advice for her neighbors.
“I am a strong believer in the more you give, the more blessing you will get from God. Therefore, give generously within your means,” Tsang said.
And for what she has given, Tsang is a shining star.