As a unit of the Division of Academic Affairs, the Asian American Resource Center (commonly known as the AARC) supports the mission and vision of Northern Illinois University to promote excellence and engagement in teaching and learning, research and scholarship, creativity and artistry and outreach and service.
Mission
The AARC creates an inclusive environment where Asian American students cultivate a strong sense of community at NIU, and where campus and community partners collaborate to raise awareness about the rich cultural heritage of Asian Americans. The Asian American Resource Center provides:
- Student-centered services
- Student learning opportunities
- Leadership development
- Student organizational advisement
- Educational/cultural programs
Your help will support our following programs and initiatives at the AARC:
Peer Mentor Program
This program will provide a sense of belonging, connection to ethnic identity, and support the academic success of AAPI first-year students. Asian American students are underrepresented at NIU. Incoming students need support to transition successfully to college. The model minority often ascribed to AAPI students incorrectly portrays that they do not need support resources. The AARC will support enhanced training programs to equip mentors with skills and competencies to support incoming students throughout the year.
Weekly Retention Initiative for NIU AAPI Students
Current programming needs to expand to wider–campus audiences to meet the recommendations of AAPI students, staff, and faculty. High-impact speakers, alumni, and faculty will present campus-wide events supporting AAPI culture and heritage, history, and social justice issues in collaboration with campus partners.
Academic Success Initiative
Boey Honors Program and AAPI Graduation Recognition for recognizing and acknowledging the achievement of NIU AAPI students. These programs follow best practices that other diversity and cultural resource centers offer. To provide equitable services and resources, the Asian American Resource Center provides these academic support services to recognize, support, and celebrate the achievement of AAPI students at Northern Illinois University.
