University celebrates Asian Pacific Islander heritage with events in April and May

All are welcome to celebrate with programming featuring conversation, food, dancing and more

A student holds up a small, red paper lantern during Lunar New Year.

University celebrates Asian Pacific Islander heritage with events in April and May

All are welcome to celebrate with programming featuring conversation, food, dancing and more

A student holds up a small, red paper lantern during Lunar New Year.

The Wolf Pack is invited to enjoy boba, watch a movie, eat some yummy spam musubi, sing a bit of karaoke and more than anything, celebrate Asian Pacific Islander community and culture throughout April and May.

In the United States, May is officially designated as Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and the University of Nevada, Reno’s Multicultural Center works with campus partners to celebrate with events in both April and May as a reflection of the Wolf Pack community. By celebrating in April, more Wolf Pack members have the opportunity to attend events, since May is a busy time on campus with spring commencement ceremonies.

The University recognizes this time of year as Asian Pacific Islander (API) Heritage Month, a nod to the international communities who are important parts of the Wolf Pack.

“Asian Pacific Islander (API) Heritage Month events give me the opportunity to be intentional about how we support and celebrate our students,” Keola Wong, Asian Pacific Islander student services coordinator, said. “This year’s events encourage learning, conversation and community through shared cultural experiences led by both faculty and students. While API Heritage Month brings added visibility, celebrating and supporting Asian and Pacific Islander students is something we should do every day, not just in April.”

The events held on campus help to create a sense of belonging for students, faculty and the community.

Explore, engage and celebrate with these events

Pop-in Boba at the Multicultural Center

The Multicultural Center, Room 311 in the JCSU

April 1-3, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Kicking off API Heritage Month, the Multicultural Center is offering a make-your-own fruit tea and boba station. Celebrate and connect with others. Learn more about Pop-in Boba on Pack Life.

“Celebrating API Heritage Month is important to me because it gives students a sense of home and community, even when home is far away. It fosters connections between students and their campus, creating invaluable opportunities to strengthen retention and enrich experiences.” – Drake Avisado, University of Nevada, Reno student

Talk Story Series: Documentary Decoded featuring “Pidgin: The Voice of Hawai’I”

The Multicultural Center, Room 311 in the JCSU

April 7, from 6 to 8 p.m.

“Pidgin: the Voice of Hawai’i” is a film screening and guided discussion that explores the history and cultural significance of Hawai’i Creole (Pidgin). The documentary challenges stereotypes and invites participants to reflect on language, identity and belonging through community stories and dialogue. Learn more about the film screening on Pack Life.

Spam Musubi Workshop

The Multicultural Center, Room 311 in the JCSU

April 15, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Spam musubi is more than a snack — it’s history, creativity and community. Learn about its cultural roots while making (and eating!) your own. Learn more about the Spam Musubi Workshop on Pack Life.

“APIA celebrations and events on campus are important to both the student and staff community of the University because it keeps people grounded and closer to their communities despite moving away from home. These events present students with opportunities to be recognized and personally advocate for their culture and traditions.” – Jazlyn Farias, University of Nevada, Reno student

API Student & Faculty Mixer

The Multicultural Center, Room 311 in the JCSU

April 17, from noon to 2 p.m.

Connect with students, faculty and staff who are passionate about building an inclusive campus. Enjoy food, games and great conversation. Learn more about the student and faculty mixer on Pack Life.

Karaoke Night

The Multicultural Center, Room 311 in the JCSU

April 21, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Whether you love the spotlight or just want to vibe with friends, join us for a fun, low‑pressure karaoke night full of music and laughter. Learn more about karaoke night on Pack Life.

Talk Stories Series: Changing the Script: API Americans in Media

The Multicultural Center, Room 311 in the JCSU

April 23, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Join us for a talk–story–style conversation exploring how Asian American and Pacific Islander communities have been portrayed in film and television over time. Through media clips, guided discussion and personal reflection, participants will examine stereotypes, celebrate breakthrough moments, and share stories about what authentic representation means to them today. Learn more about this talk stories series event on Pack Life.

Self-Care & Skin Care with Prude & Boujee

JCSU Room 403 (the Great Room)

April 28, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Wind down with an evening of self‑care and skincare tips from Reno’s Asian‑owned boutique, Prude & Boujee. Gift bags included. Limited to 60 participants and registration is required. Check the Multicultural Center's API Pack Life page for more information and a registration link once it becomes available

Ti Leaf Lei Workshop

The Multicultural Center, Room 311 in the JCSU

April 30, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Close out API Heritage Month by learning the traditional Hawaiian art of Ti leaf lei‑making and creating your own handcrafted lei. Learn more about the Ti leaf lei workshop on Pack Life.

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