MAHOPAC – Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have made numerous contributions to the history and economy of the Hudson Valley.
Putnam-Northern Westchester State Senator Peter Harckham realizes this fact and has honored three residents of the 40th State Senate district for their life’s work that has helped to strengthen the region.
Katelyn Tai, a music teacher in the Mahopac School District, Srinivasan Ramaswany of Cortlandt Manor, advisor to a global consulting company, and Chandu Visweswariah of Croton, a researcher at IBM, were recognized at a gathering in Croton-on-Hudson by the senator.
Harckham noted: “One of the Hudson Valley’s greatest strengths is its diversity, and it is important that we take time to recognize and celebrate it. The Asian American and Pacific Islander community has made profound contributions to the history, economy, and culture of both the Hudson Valley and our nation. These honorees exemplify the talent, leadership, and community spirit that continue to strengthen our region.”
Tai discovered early in life that she wanted to share the joy of music and inspire the next generation of musicians. After earning a Bachelor of Music degree from Ithaca College and a Master of Music Education degree from SUNY Potsdam, she began her career in Mahopac.
Tai taught orchestra at Mahopac Middle School for four years before becoming Orchestra Director at Mahopac High School, where she also teaches Advanced Placement Music Theory.
Guided by the belief that music is essential to students’ personal and academic development, Tai has worked tirelessly to make music education more accessible to students from all backgrounds. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she adapted her teaching methods to ensure students could continue to experience the benefits of music instruction while learning remotely. This past year, she launched an initiative bringing together middle school and high school string musicians for a collaborative day of learning and mentorship designed to build confidence and strengthen connections among young performers.
Harckham complimented Tai for creating a “welcoming environment where students are encouraged to express themselves, develop confidence and discipline, and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for the arts.”
Tai was honored: “I have made it my mission to create a welcoming and inclusive space where students can feel seen, valued, and empowered through music. I strive to create concert programs that expose students to a wide range of cultural traditions while using diverse teaching strategies to help every student connect and succeed. My goal is not simply to create the next generation of professional musicians but rather to help students understand how music shapes culture, brings communities together and reflects the world around us. Music has the power to foster empathy, understanding and connection, and I am happy I can play a small role for students to help them understand that.”