Asian American Studies Program 2017-18 Annual Report

We are a growing and dynamic program of study that explores the histories, experiences, and positioning of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans. First established in 2000, the Asian American Studies Program offers social, political, cultural, psychological, and historical approaches to understanding our diverse and rapidly growing community. Our students learn how to navigate multiple andintersecting identities, how racial categories are continually (re)constructed withvarious consequences, and how representation and inclusion are vital yet often remainelusive. As the fastest growing race-ethnic group with members from many differentorigins, the experiences of Asian Americans also speaks to how migration andtransnationalism affect identity and belonging.Asian American Studies at the University of Maryland offers a vibrant program andsupport for our students with our 15-credit minor and scholarship programs. Ourfaculty members are excellent researchers and teachers dedicated to their studentsand the advancement of Asian American Studies. We also strive to be a resource forthe larger community through the sharing of faculty research, talks and workshops,and other opportunities for meaningful dialogue.It is my honor and pleasure to begin my appointment as the Asian American StudiesProgram Director. I first arrived at the University of Maryland in 2008 as ajointly-appointed assistant professor in Asian American Studies and Sociology. TheProgram has gone through many changes in the past decade and has grown due tostudents, faculty, and community partners who are consistently passionate aboutAsian American Studies. We will build on our strengths to have a greater impact forour University of Maryland students and our communities.Julie Park, PhDDirector, Asian American Studies ProgramAssociate Professor, Department of SociologyREAD MORE