A child of Taiwanese immigrants is taking over Connecticut's public college system, and he has big plans moving forward.

News 12’s John Craven spoke with Terrence Cheng, the incoming president of Connecticut’s Public Universities and Community Colleges. He says diversity in the systems is a top goal. Currently, the student body is half white, a quarter Hispanic, 16% Black and just 4% Asian.

He also says that “everything is on the table” when asked about possible cuts due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We will look at what is working well, look at the areas that could need more strengthening," he says.

He's hoping to avoid tuition hikes, partly through a controversial merger of all 12 community colleges.

"I think we should move forward with that plan,” he says. “The merger is going to help students. It is going to make us a more financially secure and viable institution."

Cheng says every decision is aimed at helping the next generation achieve the American dream.

"It's a real honor and a privilege to serve all those students who, many of whom, are first--generation or immigrants,” he says.

Cheng currently runs UConn’s Stamford Campus.

May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.