I was born in Taiwan and raised in Los Banos, Philippines. About 45 years ago, I immigrated to Los Angeles and that still is what most defines me. I have the best job: I teach Asian American studies and History at Pasadena City College. I have lots of fun with MOHPG, Monrovia Historical Society, and ChangeMakers. I’ve been honored to help record the history of diversity in Monrovia. Some of my writings are at susieling.wordpress.com.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
Best parents, best partner…but why can’t my kids pick up socks?
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I never planned a “career”. Hard work, authenticity, and luck helped guide me into teaching.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
I need Chinese food to survive! Yi Mei and Lucious Dumpling are the bomb. Of course, Rudy’s and JB Burger’s zucchini fries help me stay “chubby.”
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I’m so fortunate to live and work in the SGV. We moved to Monrovia 4 days after Obama got elected, and 3 days after I turned 50.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Steve Baker, Ralph Walker, and Max Lee..
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
The corners of the world and the US are so fascinating that I’ll go explore anywhere – but I want to come home to Monrovia.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. How fascinating Americans are!
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Be kind to ALL people – and the environment.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Every day, I make a new list…
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
I’m an NPR junkie, but audiobooks are great fun too.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Friday Fair – duh.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
One of my favorite memories is having lunch at The Monrovian with Mayor Bob Bartlett.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Monrovia has a unique African-American heritage that was intertwined with the Chicano and Asian neighbors. Fascinating.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In five years, I expect to be older. But still young at heart, right?
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I’m very proud that both of my grandfathers were part of China’s Revolution of 1911.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
I grew up at the foot of Mt. Makiling overlooking Laguna de Bay. Oh my gulay, you can’t beat that.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
Halloween in Monrovia is super super fun.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Halloween in Monrovia
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
The LGBTQ movement has really challenged me to understand.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Roses and my pillow.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
A “home” is that cozy place you love; everyone deserves a home.
