New Program Boosts Asian American Students at Sonoma State
Just 18 months after launching, Sonoma State's AANHPI Student Achievement Program is already transforming campus life for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander students. The program connects heritage with education through mentorship, weekly gatherings, and real-world learning opportunities.
A new support program at Sonoma State University is helping Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander students thrive from their first day on campus through graduation.
The AANHPI Student Achievement Program launched in Fall 2024 and quickly became a hub for community and belonging. Director Monica Ng leads the effort alongside two student assistants, creating spaces where students connect their cultural heritage to their college experience.
"ASAP is such a unique program because it is a collaborative effort between faculty and student affairs to ensure that students feel connected to their heritage, history, and the larger AANHPI community," Ng explains. The program brings together classroom learning, mentorship, and community building in ways that honor students' backgrounds while preparing them for future success.
Students gather every Wednesday afternoon for Bayan Belonging, an hour dedicated to building friendships and community skills. On Thursdays, the Learning Community meets to discuss how Asian American Studies concepts relate to their personal lives and current events happening around them.
The program also hosts a lecture series featuring AANHPI leaders, including an upcoming talk by a Smithsonian curator. These events give students direct access to professionals making waves in their fields.
Why This Inspires
What makes this program special is how it views diversity as strength rather than challenge. By creating dedicated space for AANHPI students to explore their identities and build community, Sonoma State is investing in representation that benefits the entire campus.
Ng's vision extends beyond current students too. She hopes to see AANHPI enrollment grow and more faculty incorporate AANHPI perspectives across all subjects, from health care to education.
The program welcomes everyone, recognizing that learning about different cultures enriches the whole community. This April, during AANHPI Heritage Month, the program is hosting a full calendar of events open to all students, staff, and community members.
In less than two years, ASAP has proven that when universities actively support cultural identity and community, students don't just survive—they flourish.
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Based on reporting by Google News - Student Achievement
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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