AandPI Fall Welcome 

Campus departments, programs, and student organizations are invited to participate in this annual event welcoming students to the start of the fall quarter. The gathering celebrates the start of a new academic year and fosters connection among those interested in building community with and around Asian and Pacific Islander (AandPI) cultures and experiences.

Historically co-hosted by the Department of Asian American Studies, the Cross Cultural Center, MENASA Student Resources, and the Strategic Asian and Pacific Islander Retention Initiative (SAandPIRI), this collaborative welcome event is open to all UC Davis students.

AandPI Student Leadership Conference (AandPILeadCon) 

The SAandPIRI Student Leadership Conference, also known as AandPILeadCon, is a one-day, on-campus event that invites emerging and current student leaders to engage in professional development, community building, and holistic strategies for personal and collective care. Designed with a focus on experiences connected to Asian and Pacific Islander cultures and communities, the conference brings together students, faculty, staff, industry professionals, and community members to share knowledge, foster connection, and inspire action.

All students are welcome to attend, participate in interactive workshops, and hear from dynamic speakers committed to leadership, collaboration, and student success. 

Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (APAHM) 

Also known nationally as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM), this celebration is traditionally observed in May and recognizes the diverse histories, cultures, and contributions of communities with ties to Asia and the Pacific Islands.

At UC Davis, the AandPI Heritage Month Events Calendar features a collection of colloquia, events, seminars, and campus-wide activities that highlight and support AandPI experiences and voices. Coordinated by SAandPIRI in collaboration with students, campus departments, and community partners, the calendar showcases opportunities for learning, reflection, and celebration throughout the month of May.

All members of the UC Davis community are welcome to participate. 
To feature your event, contact: apiretention@ucdavis.edu 

Filipinx Cultural Celebration (FilGrad)

The Filipinx Cultural Celebration, or FilGrad, is an annual ceremony honoring the personal and academic achievements of graduating students, undergraduate and graduate, who identify as Filipino/a/x, or are friends of the Fil-Am community on campus. All students are welcome to attend and celebrate with their peers. Hosted by BRIDGE: Pilipinx Outreach & Retention, it was established in 1989 and is part of the affinity celebrations hosted at UC Davis. 

Lunar New Year Celebrations

Hosted by SAandPIRI in collaboration with Asian American Studies, the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the Cross Cultural Center, and Student Health and Counseling Services, this annual celebration honors the rich cultural traditions associated with Lunar New Year across Asia and Southeast Asia.

Lunar New Year—also known as the Spring Festival in China, Seollal in Korea, and Tết in Vietnam—is celebrated by millions of people around the world. It marks the arrival of spring on the lunar calendar and is a time for reflection, renewal, and gathering with community. Depending on regional customs, celebrations may begin as early as November and extend through February.

This event is open to all members of the UC Davis community.

Pacific Islander Cultural Celebration (PIGrad) 

The Pacific Islander Cultural Celebration, or PIGrad, recognizes the academic and personal achievements of students who wish to celebrate their connection to Pacific Islander culture and community. This celebration honors the accomplishments of graduates, friends of graduates, and the communities who contributed to their success. Hosted by SAandPIRI, it was established in 2022 and is part of the affinity celebrations at UC Davis. This celebration is open to all undergraduate, graduate, and professional students at UC Davis. 

If you are interested in volunteering to support the 2025 ceremony, please contact our office at apiretention@ucdavis.edu. 

Southeast Asian Cultural Celebration (SEAGrad) 

The Southeast Asian Graduation Celebration, or SEAGrad, is an annual celebration honoring the academic and personal achievements of graduating students, both undergraduate and graduate, who identify as Southeast Asian or are friends of the SEA community at UC Davis. All students are welcome to attend and celebrate with their peers. Hosted by SAFE: Southeast Asians Furthering Education, it was established in 2007 and is part of the affinity celebrations hosted at UC Davis.