In the Spotlight: Sun Chao | Live 'n Ypsi

/ Hinton Real Estate Group/

In our brand new “In the Spotlight” series, we’re highlighting community members of all interests and experiences sharing their top reasons and tips for living in Ypsilanti.

In this premier feature, we welcome Sun Chao, active community member in a variety of roles, including President for GameAbove at EMU, community chorus member, and overall Ypsilanti supporter. We caught up with Sun for reasons and tips for living in Ypsilanti.

Chao at Eastern Michigan University with Eagle mascot

Get to know Sun with these answers about living in Ypsilanti:

What should we know about you?

I'm an immigrant who came from China to Eastern Michigan University (EMU) for graduate school. I have been living in zip code 48197 for the past 13 years. I’m cofounder of Back Office Studio, a coworking place on Washington Street.

Why Ypsi?

Even though I live in Ypsilanti, I can't say I chose it. Like many EMU students, I had limited exposure to the city while in school. After graduating and working at SPARK East, engaging with businesses and the community made me fall in love with Ypsi. At EMU I felt like an "international grad student" outsider. But in Ypsilanti I felt embraced as a community member, not an outsider at all.

Can you talk about one of your most memorable moments in Ypsilanti? 

My most memorable moment was Ypsi Glow 2017 on Washington Street, right in front my my business, the first year I attended with my "little" from Big Brothers Big Sisters. It was magical seeing so many homemade costumes and creativity. My business was still under construction, but I ran inside and turned on all the lights I could to join the glow celebration with the community.

What can you share that only a local would know? 

Dom Bakeries on Washtenaw is a great local Asian owned spot that only locals know about!

What advice would you give someone looking to live in Ypsi?  

Unlike other cities where you adapt to a dominant culture, Ypsilanti welcomes you to be yourself while enjoying its diversity. People make Ypsi home for their own reasons.

What is something you are looking forward to this year? 

I look forward to Ypsi Pride every June as an LGBTQ+ ally. I perform with Out Loud Chorus at the vibrant celebration of community diversity and culture. It affirms the visibility and inclusion that makes Ypsi unlike any other Pride event in the area.– yes, including Ann Arbor.

Good things are happening here all the time. What’s good in Ypsi?

Neighborhood Theatre Group produces hilarious theatre sketches and original shows that celebrate Ypsi's culture and history. They've won numerous awards for excellence and innovation. Some of my favorite programs, now have became a tradition:

  • The Sketch Comedy Show: A hilarious collection of sketches, songs, and parodies

  • The Black Cat Cabaret: An annual spooky and sexy Halloween-themed cabaret

How would you describe Ypsilanti in 3 words?

Grassroot: Ypsilanti is a grassroot community, where the people are empowered and involved in shaping the city. Ypsilanti has a strong tradition of civic engagement and participation, as it has many organizations and initiatives that are led by the residents and supported by the local community. Ypsilanti also has a resilient and adaptive spirit, as it has overcome many challenges and changes over the years.

Fun: Ypsilanti is a fun city, where you can find many opportunities for entertainment and enjoyment. Ypsilanti has many fun attractions and activities, such as Holy Bones and more. Ypsilanti also has many fun places and venues, such as The Rocket, the Tap Room, the Sidetrack Bar and Grill, and more.

Proud: Ypsilanti is a proud city, where you can find a strong sense of identity and pride among the people and the city itself. Ypsilanti is proud of its history and heritage, is also proud of its diversity and inclusivity, as it has been a leader and a model for social justice and equality.

Want to learn more about living in Ypsilanti? Find more features and property listings at LiveNypsi.com.