Asian American and Pacific Islander Faculty and Staff Association

About Us

The Asian American and Pacific Islander Faculty and Staff Association (AAPIFSA) is a voluntary organization under the guidance of the Office of Inclusive Excellence at Arizona State University.

We foster belonging, representation, and advocacy for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) faculty and staff, in alignment with ASU’s Charter of inclusion.

Definitions

Asian American Pacific Islander refers to individuals with heritage from Asia or the Pacific Islands, including East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Pacific Islands.
AAPIFSA acknowledges the cultural, ethnic, and social diversity within the AAPI community, which encompasses a wide range of traditions, languages, and experiences.

History and Foundation

The idea to create the Asian American Pacific Islander Faculty/Staff Association was presented to the Office of Inclusive Excellence on October 11, 2024.

The formal proposal was submitted on March 20, 2025, and the association was formally established on July 11, 2025.

AAPIFSA was created to provide a structured community that supports, connects, and advocates for AAPI faculty and staff across ASU.

Vision, Mission and Values

Meetings and Events

Events and meetings may be held in person or virtually to encourage participation.

General Meetings – Held at least once per semester and open to all members.
Steering Committee Meetings – Monthly during the academic year.
Community Events – Networking, cultural celebrations, professional development, and collaborations with student organizations.

Three ASU Asian-American faculty at event.

Upcoming Meetings and Events

Leadership

AAPIFSA is guided by an elected Steering Committee of 6–10 members. Roles include:

Chair – Oversees the business of the organization, presides over meetings, and represents AAPIFSA.
Vice Chair – Assists the Chair and manages Steering Committee elections.
Secretary – Maintains records and distributes meeting information.
Communications Lead – Manages communication, website, and outreach.

Membership

Membership is open to all ASU faculty and staff who self-identify as Asian American, Pacific Islander, or allies who share in our mission.

Membership includes:

General Members – Any eligible faculty and staff interested in supporting the mission and vision of AAPIFSA.
Steering Committee Members – Elected members who guide the work of AAPIFSA.

Join AAPIFSA

Contact Us

Have questions or want to learn more about the Asian American and Pacific Islander Faculty and Staff Association? Please contact Rozita Smith at [email protected]