Asian American Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution

Students on rooftop of PSU's Urban Plaza

At Portland State University, we are proud to be Oregon’s first public university designated as an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI). This federal recognition and grant funding empower us to invest in the success, belonging, and academic excellence of our Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Desi American (APIDA) students.

Through the PSU-AANAPISI initiative, we are expanding culturally responsive resources — from the launch of our Pacific Islander and Asian American (PIAA) Studies program to enhanced mentorship, career pathways, and community-building spaces. Our mission is to honor the diverse histories and lived experiences of our students while dismantling barriers to graduation and ensuring that every member of our APIDA community has the support to thrive, lead, and serve.

Welcome to our community — where your identity is celebrated and your future is our priority.

Your Success Starts Here

Pacific Islander, Asian and Asian American (PIAAA) Student Center

Find community, connect with others, and feel at home in a welcoming space for AAPI students.

Asian, Pacific Islander & Desi Student Services

Work with dedicated coordinators to get advising, resources, and support throughout your PSU journey.

Students in Pacific Islander, Asian and Asian American (PIAAA) Student Center

EMPOWER Scholars Program

Get mentorship, build community, and develop skills to succeed in your first year and beyond.

INSPIRE Scholars Program

Build community and get culturally grounded support as a Pacific Islander student starting at PSU.

Pacific Islander professor dancing in circle
Students and professor making clay art as part of Intro to Asian American Studies class

Pacific Islander & Asian American Studies

PIAA Studies is a developing program working toward a minor that centers the histories, cultures, and lived experiences of Pacific Islander and Asian American communities, connecting classroom learning with community and lived experience.

Students pose during Oceania exhibit as part of class project

Support Our Efforts

During Day of Giving, April 15–16, support PIAA Studies and help grow opportunities for students, faculty, and community-engaged learning.

Student Organizations

Student-led organizations play an important role in fostering connection, leadership, and belonging for Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Desi American students at PSU:

  • Hong Kong Student Association - Dedicated to bringing Hong Kong culture to PSU's campus
  • Japanese Student Society - Builds a welcoming and inclusive community that connects students through shared appreciation of Japanese culture, language, and traditions
  • Kaibigan - Filipino American Student Association - Unites and empowers Filipino and Filipino-American students at PSU through educational, cultural, political, and social activities, while celebrating the Filipino American experience
  • Korean Student Association - Connects students, faculty, and scholars, offering support, cultural events, and community
  • Pacific Islanders Club - Organizes cultural and social events to enhance the campus experience and education of PSU and Pacific Islander students
  • Southeast Asian Student Association - Uplifts Southeast Asian voices and experiences while providing a safe space for belonging and friendship
  • Vietnamese Student Association - Preserves and promotes the Vietnamese culture at PSU and the surrounding community by hosting cultural events and providing programs and support for students