CSCCI History
The Colorado Springs Chinese Cultural Institute was the brain-child of Mali Hsu, a Taiwan born nurse who immigrated to Los Angeles in 1984. Mali moved to Colorado Springs in 1997 and began practicing as a Real Estate Agent. She struggled to find links to Chinese culture although some did exist. She became Principal of the Colorado Springs Chinese Language School in 1999 and served in that capacity until 2001.
Mali had also become active in the Sister Cities Organization where she Chaired the Kaohsiung, Taiwan committee. She helped to organize a very successful visit to Taiwan in 2000 led by the Mayor of Colorado Springs. During the planning process and the trip itself she shared her vision and garnered support to found an organization broadly focused on Chinese culture and heritage.
Others embraced Mali's vision and on February 3, 2001, the Mayor of Colorado Springs issued a proclamation estabishing the Colorado Springs Chinese Cultural Institute (CSCCI).
Several prominent community, academic and business leaders have served on CSCCI's Board of Directors and contributed to its development since it was founded. They include Jack Flannery, President of the National Space Science & Technology Center; Dr. Wally Astor, Ph. D., VP of Education at Colorado Technical University; Rhonda Maehara, Executive VP at Graham Advertising; June Chan, Administrative Director for Memorial Hospital for Children; and Lorne Kramer, Retired City Manager & Chief of Police.
Herman Tiemens II, MBA, CFP®, Private Wealth Financial Advisor and Managing Director of Investments, with Tiemens Private Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors, joined the Board in late 2006. Herman previously held the position of Regional Marketing Manager - Asia Pacific at United Airlines where he oversaw marketing programs for China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and several other countries throughout the region. Herman's wife, Tang-Lin, was born and raised in Singapore. His son, Collin, is a student at the University of Colorado – Boulder. The family travels to Asia every year to visit Tang-Lin's family and explore the region.
Mali Hsu remains CSCCI's Chairwoman and Herman Tiemens now serves as its Vice Chairman. They are joined on the Board of Directors by a distinguished group of active, volunteer-based members -- all of whom are Patron supporters of the Institute.
On August 13th, 2020 CSCCI recognized Mali's 20th year as Founder and Chairwomen!
It was a nice private gathering for board members and family to celebrate Mali's continued work bringing an understanding of Chinese culture to the Colorado Springs community.
Celebrating 20th Anniversary of Colorado Springs Chinese Institute (CSCCI)!