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Cornell University

Student & Campus Life

Signature Programs

Asian food in bowls on a table.

The A3C provides a variety of signature programs and annual events to the campus community. 

APIDA Gala & Student Organization Awards Ceremony The Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) Gala & Student Organization Awards Ceremony’s purpose is to showcase and celebrate all the phenomenal APIDA organizations on campus. Student organization members and student leaders are recognized for the culmination of their hard work throughout the academic year. Typically held in April, this gala is open to any student who has committed time to promoting and advancing the APIDA community at Cornell. 

APIDA Heritage Month In honor of Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) Heritage Month, the A3C hosts a series of events in April in collaboration with campus departments and student organizations. Celebrated nationally in May, APIDA Heritage Month honors Asian, Pacific Islander, and Desi Americans who have enriched U.S. history and are key to its future success. The month consists of programs and events that educate all members of the Cornell University community about the histories, cultural diversity, contributions, and often underreported challenges of Asian, Pacific Islander, and Desi Americans. 

Be-Coming Lunch Series In partnership with the Asian American Studies Program, the A3C hosts the Be-Coming Lunch Series. Be-Coming features undergraduate and graduate student speakers who enact their academic passions outside of the classroom. Come enjoy a catered lunch while listening to students talk about their exceptional research and work inside and outside the academic setting.  

Boba Talks Boba Talks is a collaboration with the Asian American Studies Program (AASP) and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). The main goal of this program is facilitate a comfortable space for students to discuss mental health. Past discussion topics include: LGBTQ+ Experiences Within the APIDA Community, The Pressure to Succeed in Asian America, and The APIDA Year in Review. 

CommUNITY Series The 6-week CommUNITY Series will engage participants in an examination of social and identity-based issues that affect APIDA identities. Weekly sessions will include various discussion topics ranging from APIDA history and immigration to mental health, racial solidarity, and more. Light refreshments are provided. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet new friends, connect with the Cornell community, learn about identities and engage in meaningful conversation.  

APIDA Teach-Ins This series of Teach-Ins will explore histories, identities, and narratives of Asian Pacific Islander Desi Americans in the United States. In collaboration with student organizations and campus departments, each session will invite participants of all backgrounds to engage in thoughtful dialogue that illuminates the complexity of APIDA experiences. 

Facilitated by trained student leaders, this series will allow students to challenge misconceptions, unlearn stereotypes, and examine how history, power, and storytelling shape our understanding of identity. Whether you're new to APIDA history or seeking deeper knowledge, these teach-ins aim to foster cultural responsiveness, solidarity, and critical reflection in our campus community. 

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