The University of New Mexico’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Resource Center has announced its grand opening at its new location, along with its annual welcome back lu’au. The dual event will be held Wednesday, Sept. 3, from noon - 2 p.m. on the north side of Cornell Mall, near the fountain.
The Center is celebrating a significant milestone by having a dedicated space to help create a thriving AAPI community on campus, as well as welcoming back students, staff and faculty for the new school year.
AAPIRC is now located at Mesa Vista Hall, Room 1064, on the north side of the building.
“This grand opening is a historic moment for the Asian American Pacific Islander Resource Center, as it marks the beginning of our new space and the foundation we are building for the AAPI community at UNM,” said Aaron Tuitoni-Mariner, AAPIRC’s program manager.
“The Lu’au is a traditional Pacific Islander welcome celebration, and it reflects the spirit of the center. This event will honor our cultures while creating an open and welcoming space where everyone on campus feels invited and represented.”
The celebration will kick off with comments from President Stokes, Eric Scott, Ph.D., VP of Student Affairs and Pamela Agoyo, acting director of AAPIRC, with entertainment immediately following, highlighting campus and community partnerships.
The cultural performances will feature the Indian student organization and the Albuquerque dance troop Ka La Kapu Polynesian Dance. Food will be provided by L&L Hawaiian BBQ.
Admission to this historic event is free, but tickets are required for entrance. Swing by their offices to pick up an event ticket before they are gone. Make sure to bring your Lobo ID card.
For more information about the event, visit AAPIRC’s website.
