I very proud of the Pasifika Spartans (i.e. students at San Jose State University) for their persistence and hardwork in launching the Pacific Islander Student Association (PISA) on campus. The journey began a year ago as a dream by Kaelynn Malani who needed a club advisor to help create a Pacific Islander-focused student club. I was more than happy to help her and the Pasifika Spartans with their movement. This fall semester began with the official recognition and approval letter from the university for the Pacific Islander Student Association (PISA).
As expressed in our constitution & bylaws, “the purpose of the Pacific Islander Student Association (PISA) is to create a sense of belonging, pride, and support at San Jose State University for the Pacific Islander students of Melanesian, Micronesian, and Polynesian descent (Pasifika Spartans) and an inclusive community in solidarity with anyone interested in joining us. Enriched by our pride in the diversity of our indigenous cultures, traditions, languages, and histories, we aim to organize activities that strengthen our bonds, advocate for resources to support our personal and collective success, and educate ourselves and the larger community about the Pasifika diasporic experience.”
For more information, visit our website: www.pasifikaspartans.org