Image Credit: Barbra Ramos
Los Angeles, California: The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) has earned the designation of an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI), joining over 200 other U.S. institutions dedicated to enhancing support for underserved Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) students.
This new designation opens avenues for UCLA to secure federal funding, which will help the university create a more inclusive, supportive environment specifically tailored to the needs of these diverse student groups.
This recognition directly challenges the “model minority” stereotype often associated with Asian American communities.
Reports highlight significant differences in admission and graduation rates across the many groups under the AANHPI umbrella, revealing the necessity for targeted initiatives to bridge these gaps.
With 35.1% of UCLA's undergraduate population identifying as AANHPI, federal support from this designation is crucial for improving access to resources that address financial, academic, and cultural challenges often faced by these students.
According to UCLA's Interim Chancellor Darnell Hunt, “The AANAPISI designation will allow UCLA to tap new sources of funding that will help us foster a welcoming and supportive environment where all students can thrive”.
These funds will be directed toward programs that alleviate financial burdens, offer guidance on campus resources, and foster a stronger sense of belonging.
The significance of this designation extends beyond UCLA’s campus, representing a positive shift toward inclusivity and a commitment to supporting the nuanced needs of the AANHPI community.
By prioritizing these students, UCLA sets a strong precedent for addressing disparities that affect diverse populations nationwide.