Candidate for Director:
Melani G. Tiongson
I have had the privilege of serving on the FBANC board for the past two years as Legal Clinics Director and have learned a lot under the leadership of FBANC 41’s president Jennifer Sta. Ana and FBANC 42’s president, Ray Rollan. This year, I hope to take what I’ve learned so far and apply it to a different position on the Board of Directors. As such, I now seek your support to continue my service to FBANC as Historian Director.
Serving on the board for the past two years and being an active member since 2016 has taught me several things. First, FBANC’s success today is due to the efforts of its members over the past four decades. Second, FBANC has a storied tradition of remembering and honoring our roots. Third, FBANC is made of changemakers that break barriers and achieve new milestones constantly. I hope to be someone who not only evolves with FBANC, but is at the forefront witnessing and helping to make lasting change.
If elected, I promise to continue initiatives set forth by past Historian Directors as well as brainstorm new ways to document history. I will continue the project started by past Historian Directors in documenting the strides we take as an organization as well as the successes the individuals of our storied family attain. For example, I will continue developing the project to honor past presidents that was developed under the “KNOW HISTORY, KNOW SELF” theme of FBANC 41. There is more work to be done on this project, and I look forward to connecting with past presidents and board members to add to our growing record. Additionally, I hope to continue the exemplary documentation of notable FBANC events, media, and resources that past Historian Directors have maintained with precision, care, and an awareness that our stories are diverse, timely, and worthy of being told.
Lastly, I hope to diversify the legacies we leave behind by uplifting the stories, perspectives, and experiences of our members who are members of marginalized communities, such as the LGBTQ+ community. I hope that, if elected, I can use my time as Historian Director to make our documented history mirror the rich, unique diversity of our members.
Thank you to the FBANC Community for your consideration. I would be honored to have your support again this year.