Celebrating 30 Years of Distinguished Leadership with Betty Cheng

The Charles B. Wang Community Health Center (CBWCHC) proudly celebrates and congratulates Betty K. Cheng, LCSW, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, as she prepares to retire at the start of 2026. For 30 years, Betty has devoted her passion, wisdom, and leadership to the Health Center and the community. She was instrumental in driving the Health Center’s expansion in Queens, broadening services to reach more underserved communities—work that now allows us to care for over 40,000 unique patients in Queens each year.

Betty’s impact extends far beyond primary care. She has championed programs in social work, financial assistance, health education, and community engagement, always centering those who are most vulnerable. Her legacy at CBWCHC is a powerful reminder of her commitment to our shared vision: ensuring that everyone has full and equal access to the highest quality health care.

Here's a look into Betty’s perspective of her time at the Health Center:

What brought you to the Health Center, and what inspired you to continue to serve after 30 years?

Betty: When the Health Center was still a free clinic offering services to the underserved Asian American community, I was there using its mimeograph machine because I was volunteering to teach ESL to a group of garment workers. I was offered a job because of my ability to speak Chinese and translate. After two years, I left to go to school for Social Work. The chance to return to the Health Center did not come until Jane Eng, former CEO, asked me to return 30 years ago. Since then, I’ve had the amazing opportunity to oversee the Health Center’s incredible growth serving more people in the community.

What was your most meaningful and/or challenging project?

Betty: It was a tremendous effort to set up a new clinic in Flushing. We went from serving 0 patients to over 40,000 patients in Queens today. However, the most meaningful project for me was setting up the In-Person Assistor and Navigator Program because to me, health care begins with understanding how to navigate and access health insurance.

What leadership lessons have guided you throughout your career?

Betty: Listen and learn from staff - they see firsthand what our patients and teams need. Staying humble & continuing with self-development has also been essential, because effective leadership means recognizing that you don’t have all the answers. I’ve made it a priority to keep learning and growing so I can better support the people I work with and the communities we serve.

What are your hopes for the Health Center moving forward?

Betty: I hope the Health Center continues to grow and evolve into an even more warm, caring, and high-quality environment—for both our patients and our staff. I want to see it remain a place where people feel supported, respected, and able to thrive.

Is there anything you’d like to share with staff or the broader community?

Betty: I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our staff for their unwavering dedication and commitment. They are truly at the heart of our mission and the reason we can serve our community so well. As we look ahead, I hope we continue nurturing a supportive environment where everyone can grow, flourish, and feel valued.

It has been a true honor to have Betty K. Cheng, LCSW, guide the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center for the past three decades. Her steadfast commitment to supporting frontline and support staff and championing underserved communities has shaped the very foundation of how we operate today. Betty has been a pillar of strength whose influence will be felt for many years to come. We are deeply grateful for all she has given to the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center. On behalf of the entire CBWCHC family, we wish her a joyful retirement and a healthy, fulfilling future ahead.