Mission Statement

The Asian Pacific Student Association (APSA) is a progressive network of constituent organizations that empower the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community at the University of California, Irvine. Through a commitment to education, advocacy, community outreach and active political participation, APSA promotes diversity throughout the community at large. In pursuing these goals, APSA strives towards the establishment of equality in a multicultural society.

Hystory*

In March of 1981, Terry Hayamizu formed the Asian/Pacific Student and Staff Association at the University of California, Irvine in response to several suicide attempts made by Asian American students who felt trapped between two cultures. This organization functioned as a social support network, which sought to promote cultural sensitivity and awareness through educating UCI staff and students. As the needs of the students changed, so did the focus of the organization. Consequently, the Asian Pacific Student Association was formed in 1988 to better address the specific needs of students. Since then, APSA has grown as an organization. In addition to its role as a social support network, APSA has established itself as a political entity challenging the issues that affect Asian and Pacific Islander students.

RISE (pictured below) is our high school outreach program.

Awards

2012-2013
Most Outstanding Political Organization at UC Irvine
Cross-Cultural Center Praxis Award

2011-2012
Most Outstanding Political Organization at UC Irvine
Cross-Cultural Center Praxis Award