VCU news

By Brian McNeill

Virginia Commonwealth University will celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a schedule of fun, inspiring and educational events throughout April.

“We hope you will join us in celebration of the rich cultural heritage, and in recognition of the significant contributions of members of the Asian community,” said Myriam T. Kadeba, Ph.D., director of the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs at VCU. “We are grateful to VCU student organizations and campus partners’ efforts in creating spaces that increase visibility of Asian students, staff and faculty throughout campus.”

VCU observes Asian American + Pacific Islander Heritage Month in April rather than May because the spring semester ends in mid-May. 

The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs’ full list of events for Asian American + Pacific Islander Heritage Month can be found here. Included among this month’s events will be:

AAPI Heritage Month Paint Night

Wednesday, April 5, 6-9 p.m., University Student Commons, Commonwealth Ballroom, 907 Floyd Ave.

Attendees to this paint night will take a “Tour around Asia,” painting iconic Asian landmarks such as China’s Forbidden City, Japan’s Floating Torii Gate, the Taj Mahal in India, and more. Artist Tyree Barnes (agape) will lead the event. Sponsored by the student organization CULTURE in partnership with the Japanese Student Association, the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, the Chinese Student Association and the East Asian Culinary Club.

Details and registration.

The Chemistry of Henna

Friday, April 7, 2-3 p.m., T. Edward Temple Building, Room 3309, 901 W. Main St.

The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs is partnering with the Department of Chemistry for this event, in which artist Jignasa Choksi will give a talk on the cultural origins of henna and mehndi and expound on their connection to chemistry to emphasize the STEM components of the practice, as well as have a demonstration where attendees will be encouraged to participate. Food will be provided to all attendees.

Details and registration.

‘Have you eaten yet?’

Tuesday, April 11, 1-3:30 p.m.

Come learn about mental wellness resources and then grab a plate of food, from biryani to lumpia. You'll get to learn how to administer Narcan from Rams in Recovery, do a mental wellness activity with Active Minds, and more. Hosted by the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, Active Minds, Rams in Recovery, University Counseling Services, and Recreation and Wellbeing Sports.

Details and registration.

AAPI Alumni Career Panel

Wednesday, April 12, 6-8 p.m.

You First at VCU is hosting an Asian American and Pacific Islander Alumni career panel in which students will have the opportunity to hear from VCU AAPI alumni as they share more about their undergraduate journeys and how they were able to transition into the workforce. Food will be provided.

Details and registration.

Queering West Asia: A Conversation on Middle Eastern Roots & LGBTQIA+ Identity

Thursday, April 13, 6-7:30 p.m.

Join the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs for shawarma, falafel and a great discussion. Panelists include Lebanese American journalist Jenny Hijazi (she/her) and Palestinian chef Marcelle Afram (they/he).

Details and registration.

‘Resettled: A Survivor's Story’

Tuesday, April 18, 6-7:30 p.m., at the Office of Multicultural Affairs, suite 215, 907 Floyd Ave.

Khushnood Nabizada will tell his personal story of working as the chief of staff to the Ministry of Urban Development and Housing in the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, becoming a refugee, and his adjustment to his new life in Virginia. The event is hosted by the Office of Multicultural Affairs, Alumni Relations, the Office of Student Experience, Residential Life and Housing and the School of World Studies in the College of Humanities and Sciences.

Details and registration.

Asian Faculty, Staff and Student mixer

Thursday, April 20, 3-4:30 p.m., University Student Commons, Virginia Rooms, 907 Floyd Ave.

In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs is hosting an opportunity for the VCU Asian community to come together for a mixer.

Details and registration.