Tzu Chi University Expresses its Gratitude to Selfless and Dedicated Tzu-Cheng Fathers and Yi-Te Mothers

Tzu Chi University, which was founded 28 years ago, has organized the Tzu-Cheng and Yi-Te Association, Counseling Center, and academic advisors to accompany students. On the eve of Mother’s Day, the University held a gratitude ceremony for the Tzu-Cheng and Yi-Te Association, thanking selfless, dedicated Tzu-Cheng fathers and Yi-Te mothers from across Taiwan. These Tzu Chi volunteers return to campus monthly, on their own time and dime, to accompany students on their journeys of growth. Over a hundred parents who have served for 10, 20, and 25 years or more, were awarded commemorative medals.

Vice President Jui-Hong Yen of Tzu Chi University reflected at the event saying, “Since joining Tzu Chi University in 2006, I’ve been impressed by the strong connections these parents have established with students. This achievement is truly noteworthy. The members of Tzu-Cheng and Yi-Te Association perfectly embody and enliven our University’s motto of kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity, thus serving as an excellent example for our students.”

In academic year 2022, the Tzu-Cheng and Yi-Te Association was recognized by the Ministry of Education with the Voluntary Service Award for their exceptional team performance. In her speech, Li-Fen Chang, Director of the Center for Faculty Development and Instructional Resources stated, “At Tzu Chi, we see many volunteers lighting the way in the world. It’s deeply moving to witness everyone accompanying one another in life, seeing the powerful impact of giving, and promoting a cycle of shared goodness in society. The Tzu-Cheng and Yi-Te Association’s contributions to the school have indeed earned the Ministry of Education’s recognition.”

Tzu-Cheng father Ben Shi, who has served for over 25 years, went on stage to receive his award. He shared the three key principles that Dharma Master Cheng Yen proposed for the Tzu-Cheng and Yi-Te Association’s establishment at Tzu Chi University. Firstly, to care for and interact with students daily, sharing rich life experiences. Secondly, many professors have returned from abroad, making it crucial to provide them with extra care and help them understand Tzu Chi’s educational philosophy. Lastly, Tzu-Cheng fathers and Yi-Te mothers themselves should regularly share and care for each other’s understanding of Tzu Chi’s educational philosophy.

Shu-Chen Lin, an Yi-Te mother serving since the University’s founding said, “I began working in the Office of Student Affairs in 1994, by managing a multitude of student issues. The students would approach us with any concerns, treating us like close family members. I feel both proud and privileged to have had the opportunity to gain experience alongside the students.”

Two Yi-Te mothers, Mei-Hua Gan and Ching-Pin Lin, who have also served for 25 years, shared their experiences of frequently receiving wedding invitations and cakes from alumni, often being asked to attend the weddings, but not to bring red envelopes (cash gifts), which was an amusing aspect of their journey. They emphasized that it’s deeply rewarding to love other people’s children with a parent’s heart.

University faculty members, staff, and students expressed their gratitude to the Tzu-Cheng fathers and Yi-Te mothers through a “Benevolent Heart, Parental Love” essay writing, drawing competition, and heartfelt songs. Wen-Yu Chen, a staff in the Office of Humanistic Culture, and Shao-Wen Ran, a staff in the Office of Student Affairs and alumnus of the Department of Information Technology and Management at Tzu Chi University of Science and Technology, sang beautifully with piano accompaniment from Yi-Chung Liu, Director of the Office of Humanistic Culture. They hope to carry forward the love of the benevolent fathers and mothers, ensuring this happiness continues unendingly.

Students Li-Xuan Lin, a sophomore in Digital Media and Technology, Qian-Ying Xu a junior in Child Development and Family Studies, Zi-Xuan Zeng a sophomore in Communications Studies, and Yi-Ting Huang a junior in Oriental Languages and Literature performed the “Happiness Contact Book.” They expressed their gratitude for the Tzu-Cheng fathers and Yi-Te mothers, who have given them familial companionship and care since they justify their hometowns and came to the University. They wanted to learn and give back in this benevolent environment and wished all the Tzu-Cheng fathers and Yi-Te mothers a Happy Mother’s Day.