Asian American association names first full-time Executive Director

People

May 20

Dr. Yilin Wendland-Liu

Photo courtesy of West Michigan Asian American Association

The West Michigan Asian American Association (WMAAA) has appointed Dr. Yilin Wendland-Liu as its new Executive Director, effective June 1, 2025. Wendland-Liu is an experienced leader in education, equity, and community engagement and has previously held academic and civic leadership roles across the region. She most recently served as the Adult Tutoring Program Director at the Literacy Center of West Michigan.

Wendland-Liu brings a deep commitment to inclusion and cross-sector collaboration.

“Throughout the search process, one word kept surfacing: equity. Yilin’s heart for inclusion and her commitment to listening deeply to every voice, especially those most often left out, gives me great confidence in the future of this organization,” said Charlie Elwood, President, West Michigan Asian American Association. “Together, we’ll continue building the bridges that carry our communities forward.”

A dedicated community builder, Wendland-Liu is a Fellow of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Community Leadership Network (Class Three) and a member of the Kellogg Foundation Global Fellow Network. She has also held leadership and academic positions as a visiting professor at Grand Valley State University, Provost and Principal of the Grand Rapids Chinese Language School, and Co-President of WMAAA.

Her civic engagement includes service on the Grand Rapids Community Foundation Scholarship Selection Committee and the Kent County Essential Needs Equity Action Committee. Wendland-Liu holds a doctorate in Culture and Language from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

“It is an honor to build upon the powerful legacy founded by Minnie Morey and Bing Goei at WMAAA,” said Wendland-Liu. “I am committed to expanding our mission and amplifying our impact throughout the community. We are entering a new era, one defined by transformational change, collaborative partnerships, and active listening. By engaging trusted leaders and ensuring community voices guide our actions, we will develop programs and services that help every individual thrive. Together, we are shaping a brighter and more inclusive future for all.”