Student Success and Belonging Center (SSBC)

Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) Programs and Services

The Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) Programs and Services is a central location for students, staff, faculty, and community members to engage with the APIDA history, experience, and culture. The program also partners and collaborates with campus departments, student organizations, and community partners to organize and facilitate events that directly support and address the needs of the APIDA community.

Southeast Asian Student Success Initiative

The Southeast Asian Student Success Initiative is a comprehensive and multi-pronged program that utilizes a holistic approach to increasing retention and graduation rates, eliminating equity gaps in degree completion and fostering the academic success of all students at Fresno State, including Southeast Asian students.

Learn more about SEASSC

Students at graduation

Programming

These programs are open and available to all who are interested in participating, regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin.

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebrations

APA Heritage Month is filled with events, workshops, and cultural showcases designed to honor and celebrate the rich and diverse heritage of the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) community. These events provide a platform for students, staff, and faculty to engage with APIDA history, culture, and contemporary issues through performances, presentations, and community gatherings. Programming will highlight the contributions of APIDA individuals and communities, fostering cultural awareness and promoting inclusivity.

Lunch and Learns // ED Talks

Lunch and Learns // ED Talks are panel discussions, presentations, workshops, and spaces where students, staff, and faculty gather to learn and discuss topics pertaining to the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) community. Recent topics include APIDA mental health, student success as male-identifying APIDA students, cultural activities such as henna tattoo, and APIDA Faculty experiences in higher education.

New Year Celebrations

New Year Celebrations are a series of cultural events, performances, and interactive experiences designed to showcase the diverse New Year traditions within the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) community. These events provide a space for students, staff, and faculty to learn about and participate in the rich customs and meanings behind these celebrations. Programming includes cultural showcases, food demonstrations, and opportunities to connect with the unique heritages of various API communities.

APIDA Book Club

APIDA Book Club provides space for students, staff, and faculty to come together to explore literature by and about the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) community. This club provides a space for engaging discussions, critical analysis, and shared learning about diverse APIDA experiences and perspectives. Selections range from contemporary fiction and non-fiction to classic works, offering insights into history, culture, and identity. Each meeting fosters a deeper understanding of APIDA voices and creates a community of readers passionate about exploring these narratives.

Micro-Certificate and Community Leadership Research Projects

In partnership with the College of Social Sciences' Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution, we have offered the Community Leaders (CL) Program—a year-long leadership experience that equips students with the skills and knowledge to advocate for the APIDA (Asian Pacific Islander Desi American) community and beyond. Through cohort-based training, CLs explore cultural competency, the history of APIDA communities, and current social issues. As part of the program, CLs design and deliver Culturally Responsive Services(CRS) that address the ongoing impacts of the pandemic and respond to disparities within the community. These projects are showcased at ED Talks—a campus-wide event that creates a dedicated safe space for APIDA students to share their stories, connect with peers, and find support. All projects are published in a Resource Guide to help connect APIDA students and the broader community to vital on- and off-campus resources.

More information

Resources

Calendar