WESTFORD — New WestfordCAT Board of Directors member Ming Zhang says his goals are simple: strengthen community engagement, broaden representation and help ensure every resident feels connected to the town’s community media organization.
A longtime WestfordCAT volunteer reporter, Zhang was recently appointed to the board after contributing to the organization as a volunteer.
“It’s actually been a pretty inspirational experience,” he said. “I’ve been a volunteer reporter for WestfordCAT, and that’s been a highly positive experience.”
He said conversations with residents reinforced his decision to take on a larger leadership role.
“People tell me they know me because of WestfordCAT, and I feel proud every time people mention it,” Zhang said.
Joining the board allows him to combine two passions, writing and leadership. After spending years in executive roles within the technology industry, he believes his experience managing global teams, budgets and business operations will help him contribute to WestfordCAT’s long-term success.
“I’ve been in business leadership roles for many years, and this felt like a natural fit,” he said. “I want to look at WestfordCAT’s future and how we can better engage the community.”
One of his top priorities is increasing resident engagement. Zhang said local media plays a vital role in connecting residents with town government, community organizations and neighborhood events.
“WestfordCAT plays a critical role in resident engagement,” Zhang said.
Another major focus is ensuring WestfordCAT continues to reflect Westford’s growing diversity. As a first-generation immigrant from China, he hopes to help amplify voices from all parts of the community.
“We have a diverse population, and I want to help represent all voices and all groups,” he said. “When people say Westford is a rich town, I think it’s rich in culture.”
Rather than changing the organization’s mission, he hopes to build upon its existing success by making it even more inclusive.
“I don’t want to change everything,” Zhang said. “I want to add to the diversity and make sure nobody is left out.”
Looking ahead, he hopes more residents will become involved with WestfordCAT by reading its newspaper, attending community events and providing feedback.
“It works both ways,” he said. “We can only do better when we receive input from the community.”
For residents unfamiliar with WestfordCAT, he describes the organization as an essential resource for staying informed about local government, recreation, cultural events and community life.
“It’s deeply rooted in Westford,” Zhang said. “It gives residents all the updates they need to know about the town and helps people feel at home in the community.”
As he begins his term, he hopes to continue supporting WestfordCAT’s mission while helping it grow alongside the community it serves.
