Story
Our unit was established from the advocacy efforts of the ME/SA Studies program as well as Middle Eastern and South Asian students, staff and faculty following the increased discrimination of these communities after 2001. The result was the creation of the Middle Eastern and South Asian Student Affairs Officer position who would provide holistic support to students as they navigated through college. As the needs of the community were identified, it became clear that the position would benefit from additional resources to support the growing MENASA undergraduate community at UC Davis.
Today, the position exists under Student Affairs, and works closely with the ME/SA Studies program despite being separate units. Our center under Student Affairs is known as Middle Eastern, North African and South Asian (MENASA) Resource Center to reflect the shared experiences of the community throughout the region.
We welcome all students, including those that identify with or have ties to the diaspora, community or the region including countries in the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia and welcome all to engage and learn through dialogue and cultural exchange.
Vision
We envision a campus where intentional coalition-building with Southwest Asian, North African, and South Asian (SSWANA) identities fosters compassionate communities, deepens understanding across differences, and develops globally minded leaders equipped to engage an interconnected world.
Mission
Our mission is to foster the success and belonging of Southwest Asian, North African, and South Asian (SSWANA) students through holistic, intersectional support that advances their academic, personal, and cultural development. Through education, advocacy, community-building, and intentional coalition-building, we empower students to thrive on campus.
Our center is part of the Community Resource and Retention Centers umbrella. These centers provide resources, programs and opportunities to students to develop personally and professionally.
Department Priorities
1. Student Wellness and Academic Success
Goal 1: Increase access to wellness resources and support for SSWANA students.
Goal 2: Increase access to culturally responsive academic advising and support for SSWANA students.
Goal 3: Expand opportunities for students to explore culturally responsive approaches to physical, financial, and basic-needs wellness.
2. Community/Coalition Building and Sense of Belonging
Goal 1: Create counter spaces for students to meet others and find connections on campus.
Goal 2: Strengthen connections and coalition-building across SSWANA and campus communities.
Goal 3: Create opportunities for students to explore identity, deepen self-understanding, and develop solidarity across communities.
3. Advocacy, Cultural Identity, and Education
Goal 1: Develop students' knowledge, skills, and confidence to advocate for themselves and their communities.
Goal 2: Increase opportunities for students to engage in critical learning about SSWANA histories, identities, cultures and diaspora experiences.
Goal 3: Expand students’ connections with community organizations and opportunities beyond campus through referrals beyond campus.
Location
The MENASA Resource Center is located in the Student Community Center on the second floor in Suite 2101. Find the Student Community Center on the campus map.
Hours
Monday – Friday: 10 am – 5 pm
Closed university holidays.
Hours for summer and quarter breaks may vary–please contact the center for details.
Mailing Address
Student Community Center, Suite 2101
397 Hutchison Drive
Davis, CA 95616