Chinese American Citizens Alliance

National Board

Helen L. Ying

National Vice President, Membership

Born in Hong Kong, Helen Ying came to the United States at age 11 to join her extended family. Helen’s grandfather was the first of her family to immigrate to America, leaving China in the late 1800’s. Staying closely connected to the Chinese community through her church and community involvement has enabled her to fully embrace the best of both cultures: East meeting the West.

Helen’s professional career encompasses 30 years of experience as a mathematics teacher, high school counselor, and high school vice-principal. Currently, she serves as a hearings officer for two school districts and consults on strategic planning and collaboration for local governments.

In addition to her professional work, Helen has also been active in the community – serving in various capacities over the years rallying for the causes of youth, civil rights, and leadership development. She desires to help improve the livability and quality of life for people in our community. She is currently serving on a myriad of boards and in leadership positions involved in efforts connected to education, health care, civil rights, environment, and social justice issues.

Helen holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and a Master’s degree in Education and Counseling from Portland State University. She is fluent in Chinese.

Today, she lives in SW Portland with her husband, Stephen. Her daughter, Melanie also lives in Portland and her son, Geoffrey, lives in Corvallis. In her leisure time she enjoys walking, hiking, reading, traveling, and spending time with her mother who lives in a care home on Mt. Scott.