UTS is a matter of the heart for Dr. Kevin Huang and Nita Chen P ’22, ’27. They have two daughters at UTS: S6 (Grade 12) Isabella will graduate this school year, while F1 (Grade 7) Emilia has just embarked on her UTS journey. They’ve given their generous support, are regulars at school events, and Nita has volunteered in multiple capacities for UTS Parents’ Association, as a Parent Challenge Champion for the Building the Future campaign, and for UTS Together (UTS Giving Days). She describes the work as being like a cheerleader, encouraging parents in a genuine way to give their support to our school.
“Most parents are very kind and thank you so much for volunteering for the community, and I receive a lot of positive feedback,” says Nita. “So I’m not only giving – I feel like I learn so much and gain friendship and a sense that words cannot describe.”
At first, Nita was hesitant to volunteer because English is her second language, but the more she volunteered, the more comfortable she became. “I feel like the parent community is so strong at the school that it inspires me to devote more time.” Her connections with UTS parents now extend beyond the walls of the school – she joined forces with two UTS mothers – Wendy Min P ’18, ’20 and Jing Yan P ’20 – to launch an animal rescue non-profit earlier this year.
“I have made these wonderful friends who are so devoted to giving back. I feel so honoured to be part of this community,” says Nita.
Kevin thinks UTS is a special school. “UTS teaches independent thinking and develops habits for self-learning. Isabella learned the best way to seek and absorb knowledge throughout her time at UTS. She has become a confident, independent student.”
Nita praises the efforts of UTS staff. “The teachers are amazing and know their students so well. It’s a very personalized experience.”
Now, Nita and Kevin are looking forward to seeing their support come to fruition in our renewed building. Kevin loves how our renewed building reminds him of retrofitted buildings in London, UK. “I like how it blends the old and the new. Once it’s finished, our school will stand out as one of the more distinguishable buildings in downtown Toronto and there will be many more opportunities for the next generations of UTS students to thrive.”
