Learn introductory information about Tai Chi through the Hainecke Institute from Western Michigan University
Registration Required
Cheng Tao will be here courtesy of the Asian Initiatives and Hainecke Institute at Western Michigan University to teach participants the basics of Tai Chi.
Presenter's Bio
Cheng Tao is a Professor of Education at Jiangsu Maritime Institute, Jiangsu, China, and a visiting professor at Haenicke Institute for Global Education, Western Michigan University, since June 2022.
Holding a master’s degree in Higher Education from Southeast University, Nanjing, China, Tao has been teaching for over 30 years, including Tai Chi. Tao has practiced Tai Chi for over 25 years and has taught different age groups. From the summer of 2022, Tao teaches various Tai Chi classes, including Basic Tai Chi, Intermediate Tai Chi, Tai Chi Sword, Tai Chi Fan, on WMU campuses and at local community centers, including regularly teaching a Seated Tai Chi class at the Portage Zhang’s Senior Center. Tao also leads various cultural workshops, including Kalamazoo’s Workout Wednesday, Encounter Tai Chi at Kalamazoo Public Library, Tai Chi demonstrations at Chenery Auditorium, Miller Auditorium, and Grand Rapid’s Art Prize. Tao’s classes are well-received and liked by students of all levels.
Tao bears genuine respect and care for his students. Over time, Tao received various organizational recognition, such as “The Most Well-Received Teacher Award” by Jiangsu Maritime Institute in June 2011, “Outstanding Teacher Award” by Jiangsu Maritime Institute in February 2014, “Excellent Teacher Award” at Jiangsu Maritime Institute in 2017, “Distinguished Visiting Professor Award” by Asian Initiatives, Western Michigan University in June 2023, and “Excellence in Teaching Award” by Portage Zhang Senior Center in June 2024.
Tao’s wife is currently pursuing her Ph. D. degree at WMU, his two boys are attending elementary school in Kalamazoo, MI.
Event Contact: Rachael Wiegmann
Location details: Long and Gourdneck Rooms, located on the lower level of the library.
Accommodations: All participants are welcome. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact us at rwiegmann@portagelibrary.info in advance of your visit.
AGE GROUP: | Adult |
EVENT TYPE: | Activity |
TAGS: | 4:Adult Dept | 3:Standard | 2:In person | 1:Adult (18+) |
Located near the intersection of S. Westnedge and Shaver Rd, Portage District Library offers ample parking, EV charging, and access to the Portage Bikeway.
