Councilmember Sun Burford immigrated to the United States from Tianjin, China in 1999 and has called the Seattle region home for twenty‑seven years. She continued her education after arriving in the U.S., studying financial accounting, leadership, American multiculturalism, human relations, and computer information systems. She describes immigration as a “reset,” one that required courage, open‑mindedness, and the willingness to rebuild her life from the ground up.
Burford has proudly served the Bellevue School District for twenty years, earning her 20‑year service pin. Fourteen years ago, she moved to Newcastle after discovering the city’s deep Chinese American history, including neighborhoods named China Creek and China Falls—areas once home to early Chinese coal miners. Feeling a strong connection to this heritage, she made Newcastle her permanent home.
Her professional background spans education and journalism, roles that strengthened her communication skills and her ability to respond to unexpected situations. During the COVID‑19 pandemic, rising anti‑Asian hate crimes deeply affected her, especially when a student expressed fear of walking in her own neighborhood. Motivated to uplift and protect her community, she agreed to run for office and was elected in 2023, becoming the first Chinese American councilmember in Newcastle’s history.
Councilmember Burford is also a strong advocate for the arts. She serves on Newcastle’s arts council and helped grow the city’s cultural programming. One of her most significant achievements is founding Newcastle’s Lunar New Year celebration, which began during the pandemic and has since become a signature annual event.
As a councilmember, Burford chairs the Community Engagement Committee and serves on the Economic and Community Development Committee. She has initiated Newcastle’s first Lunar New Year resolution and proclamation, as well as the city’s first AANHPI proclamation. Her service has earned regional recognition, including the Annual Diamond Inspiration Award and a second nomination for leadership.
Councilmember Burford encourages young people to dream boldly, pursue what inspires them, and believe in their ability to make a difference. She reminds them that meaningful civic engagement begins with curiosity, courage, and the willingness to take the first step.
