AAPI Heritage Month 2022 Stories

Four honorees offer ideas on how to collaborate with AAARCC.

What makes an ally?

Ask the four Purdue faculty members who were honored April 30 for their collaboration with the Purdue’s Asian and Asian American Research and Cultural Center. All have been very involved with the center, said AAARCC director, said Pam Sari, and are good examples of how others might participate. Many frequently attend the center events. Many hold classes at the center or invite the director to speak to their classes. Some are guest speakers for AAARCC. All are allies.

Students earn more than a degree when linked with AAARCC and student groups.

Imagine yourself at 18 and away from home for the first time, trying to navigate a huge research university, feeling alone in a sea of almost 50,000 students. Then imagine walking into a classroom and finding no one who looks like you or has your experiences. Then, imagine an oasis where “everybody knows your name.”

Purdue Alumna shares a passion for connection and inclusion

Purdue Pharmacy alumna Sun Lee-Such was born in Seoul, South Korea and emigrated with her family to Chicago, the city that she still calls home, in 1979. Early on in her education, Lee-Such says she developed an interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) subjects and specifically pharmacy - which led her to Purdue.

Drum beat of the Lion Dance brings Chinese heritage to Purdue

The Asian American and Asian Resource and Cultural Center (AAARCC) Lion Dance group is showcasing Purdue’s cultural diversity and entertaining the community with the Lion Dance. This traditional Chinese performance features a brightly colored, fierce-looking lion that dances to the beat of drums and symbols. The dance is meant to scare away evil spirits and bring good luck.