For NT and Arlene Chang, legacy is an active commitment, one shaped by intention, family values and a deep respect for their Chinese heritage. As first-generation immigrants from Taiwan, they have spent decades building a life grounded in tradition, hard work and service. These are values they strive to pass down to their children, grandchildren and the broader community they call home.

This philosophy is carried directly into their philanthropy. As supporters of Providence St. Jude Medical Center, the Changs are committed to advancing innovative technologies that can save lives and strengthen care for patients. Reflecting on the opportunities they have benefited from over the years, they chose to support advancing medical technology at Providence St. Jude as a way to create the greatest possible impact for their community. They view their giving not simply as generosity, but as an opportunity to invest in the community that made their success possible.

Because of their strong commitment to Providence St. Jude, NT and Arlene were recently honored on the Guardian Circle level of our Lifetime Giving donor wall as the very first donors to be represented with Chinese characters, personally rendered in Arlene’s own calligraphy. For Arlene, her love for Chinese calligraphy is deeply meaningful. She describes it as “not only an art form, but also a practice of cultivating inner peace and mindfulness.” Just as intentionally as they instill their heritage and values within their own family, they hope this visual representation of Chinese calligraphy will inspire other members of the Asian American community to see themselves reflected and give back in the same way.

As Arlene so poignantly shared, “As the saying goes, one generation plants the trees, and the next enjoys the shade. We have been fortunate to benefit from the stability and opportunities America has offered over the past 40 years. It is our sincere hope that the next generation will have the chance to go even further and live even better lives than us.”

By establishing their Nien Er Caring Fund to support innovation and technology at Providence St. Jude, the Changs are planting seeds today that will one day shape the future of care for generations to come. Their leadership and example will surely inspire others to follow.