Patsy Fang Chen
By Kaju Roberto

Patsy Fang Chen, a longtime leader in the New York Taiwanese community and artistic director of the New York Young Lions Youth Orchestra, passed away in New York on January 4 at the age of 78. Photo by Kaju Roberto.
Personal Note: Patsy Fang Chen was more than a leader and mentor — she was a friend, a guide, and a source of inspiration for all who knew her. Her dedication to the Taiwanese community, youth music education, and cultural exchange touched countless lives. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit and legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. – Kaju Roberto
Patsy Fang Chen, a longtime leader in the New York Taiwanese community and artistic director of the New York Young Lions Youth Orchestra, passed away on January 4 at the age of 78. Throughout her life, she devoted herself to community service and the cultivation of young musicians, earning widespread respect as a figure who brought together cultural identity, civic engagement, and the next generation.
Her sudden passing has sent waves of grief through the overseas Taiwanese community and New York’s cultural circles.
Born in Taiwan on May 31, 1948, Fang Hsiu-jung grew up in a family rooted in medicine; her father was a prominent obstetrician and gynecologist in Taipei. A gifted musician from an early age, she graduated at the top of her class in music from the National Taiwan College of Arts in 1968. Soon after, she relocated to the United States, working in hospital administration in Chicago until 1970. She later earned a master’s in music education from New York University. After settling in New York, she became actively involved in Taiwanese community affairs, dedicating decades of service to public and cultural initiatives.
Chung Chi-jen, music director of the Young Lions Youth Orchestra, recalled with deep sorrow the final weeks of Fang’s life. In November 2025, she traveled to Taiwan and Japan and joined a delegation representing seven major North American overseas Chinese communities. Upon arriving, she contacted Chung to say she had injured her leg. Although she had originally planned to be away for three weeks, she returned to New York earlier than expected where she received medical care. Despite prayers and concern from those close to her, she passed away on January 4.
Fang’s contributions to the overseas Taiwanese community were extensive and enduring. She served two consecutive terms as chairperson of the New York Taiwanese Association from 2017 to 2020 and was widely regarded as one of the organization’s most influential leaders. During her tenure, she oversaw facility improvements and expanded the association’s programming, while strengthening partnerships with Taiwanese organizations, educational groups, and local elected officials.
Under her leadership, the association became an important platform for Taiwanese Americans to connect and introduce Taiwan to the broader public. After completing her term, she remained actively engaged, regularly attending events such as Taiwanese Heritage Day at the New York State Legislature and programs supporting education, women’s organizations, and civic advocacy. Her commitment to democracy, human rights, and Taiwan’s global presence never wavered.
Music education was one of Fang’s deepest passions. In 1998, she assumed leadership of the New York Chinese Youth Orchestra, later known as the Young Lions Youth Orchestra, serving as its artistic director. She dedicated herself to nurturing young musicians between the ages of 10 and 18, offering structured training and frequent performance opportunities.
The orchestra presented annual concerts in Queens and at Lincoln Center and regularly performed in libraries, parks, schools, senior centers, and Taiwanese community venues. Over time, it became one of the most respected youth orchestras in New York.
According to Chung, Fang led the orchestra with tireless energy and heartfelt care. She fostered a strong sense of unity among the faculty and students. She respected the professional judgment of the instructors and supported their ideas, creating a collaborative environment. Warm, generous, and enthusiastic, she was known for her outgoing personality and her ability to inspire trust and admiration from everyone around her.
Fang also played a vital role in connecting organizations such as the Queens District Professional Symphony Orchestra with the broader Asian community, promoting multicultural programming and expanding access to mainstream arts resources within immigrant communities. Many alumni of the Young Lions Youth Orchestra remember Fang as a mentor who shaped not only their musical abilities but also their values and sense of purpose.
Patsy Fang Chen shared a close and meaningful relationship with Talking Taiwan. She was a steadfast supporter and sponsor of the podcast, as well as a trusted advisor whose insight and encouragement helped shape its work. She was, above all, a cherished friend to Felicia and me, offering generosity, wisdom, and unwavering support.
Her legacy endures through countless lives she touched, institutions she strengthened, and young people she inspired to carry forward both music and community service. Patsy touched our lives in meaningful ways, and she will be deeply and dearly missed. May she live on happily in peace and joy in the life beyond.

