Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Each April, our campus celebrates Asian and Pacific Islander (API) Heritage Month and serves as an opportunity to celebrate the contributions and leadership of the API community.

April 02, 2026
Morrill Hall sits on the south end of the University of Nevada, Reno quad, a large lawn area surrounded by trees and a walking path.

Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Each April, our campus celebrates Asian and Pacific Islander (API) Heritage Month and serves as an opportunity to celebrate the contributions and leadership of the API community.

April 2, 2026

Dear Wolf Pack Family, 

I hope you are all enjoying the spring weather. The blooming flowers this time of year are always my favorite. 

Each April, our campus celebrates Asian and Pacific Islander (API) Heritage Month and serves as an opportunity to celebrate the contributions and leadership of the API community. This observance allows us to recognize the many ways these communities have strengthened and enriched the University, while continuing our shared commitment to inclusivity and awareness.

Nationally, API Month is recognized in May. However, at the University of Nevada, the observance is celebrated in April, allowing our campus to engage before May’s final examinations and commencement activities. The API community encompasses more than 40 distinct cultures, many of which are represented on our campus. I am incredibly proud of the Asian American and Pacific Islander students, faculty and staff, and the vital role they play in our University community.

This will be an eventful month, highlighted by many opportunities to learn about API culture and traditions. From Boba and spam musubi sampling, to important film discussions and an energetic karaoke night, I hope you’ll take the time to connect, celebrate and learn.

During this celebration, we recommit to elevating API voices and standing together. Our University remains steadfast in honoring the lasting contributions of API communities as an integral part of our shared story.

Events

  • Pop-in Boba, April 2-3, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Multicultural Center at the JCSU, Room 311
    Kick off API Heritage Month with a refreshing treat. Make your own fruit tea with popping boba, hang out and meet new people. Supplies are limited, so come early. 

  • Talk Story Series: Documentary Decoded: "Pidgin: The Voice of Hawai’i," April 7, 6 to 8 p.m., Multicultural Center, JCSU, Room 311
    “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. 

  • Spam Musubi Workshop, April 15, 6 to 8 p.m., Multicultural Center, Room 311, JCSU
    Spam musubi is more than a snack — it’s history, creativity and community. Learn about its cultural roots while making (and eating!) your own.

  • API Student and Faculty Mixer, April 17, noon to 2 p.m., Multicultural Center, Room 311, JCSU
    Connect with students, faculty and staff who are passionate about building an inclusive campus. Enjoy food, games and great conversation.

  • Karaoke Night, April 21, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Multicultural Center, Room 311, JCSU
    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.
     
  • Talk Story Series: Changing the Script: Asian and Pacific Islanders in media, April 26, 6 to 7:30 p.m., Multicultural Center, Room 311, JCSU
    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.

  • Self-care and skin-care with Prude and Boujee, April 28, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Room 403, JCSU 
    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 RSVP is required.
     
  • Ti Leaf Lei Workshop, April 30, 6 to 8 p.m., Multicultural Center, Room 311, JCSU
    Close out API Heritage Month by learning the traditional Hawaiian art of Ti leaf lei‑making and creating your own handcrafted lei.

I encourage you all to participate in these events over the month of April as we honor and celebrate API culture and traditions. 

Go Pack!

Sincere regards,

Brian Sandoval
President

April 02, 2026