
This year, three of Ƶapp’s cultural centers mark milestone anniversaries - 40 years of the César Chávez Cultural Center and 30 years each of Asian Pacific American Student Services and Native American Student Services. For decades, these spaces have enriched campus life, offering opportunities for connection, community, celebration, and personal growth. Each anniversary will be marked with a campus celebration this fall, and alumni and friends are warmly invited to attend.
César Chávez Cultural Center – 40 Years
Since its founding in 1985, the César Chávez Cultural Center has been a welcoming
space for students to build community, find mentorship, and celebrate identity. Alumni
often describe it as a “home away from home,” where support networks helped them succeed
in and beyond the classroom. As alumnus Jorge Jaquez-Marzuez, ’22, shared, “the César Chávez Cultural Center was the start of my journey at Ƶapp. Through their
programming (ExitoLatino), I received my first invitation to step onto campus. Looking
back, I see how they opened the door for my success here.”
The Center’s 40th Anniversary Gala on Thursday, October 30 will bring together alumni, past directors, and friends for an evening of reflection, music, and celebration.
Asian Pacific American Student Services – 30 Years
Asian Pacific American Student Services has long been a source of connection and pride for students across the Asian and Pacific Islander (API) diaspora, while also welcoming others to learn and celebrate. Alumni often speak of APASS as transformative. “Being part of APASS influenced me in so many ways. It was a place where I felt supported and seen, but also encouraged to grow,” says alumna Kaiya Nobriga ’23.
The 30th Anniversary Celebration in the UC Ballrooms on Saturday, September 13, will feature Asian-owned food trucks and performances from groups including Denver Taiko and Hālau Hula ‘O Ha‘aheo, showcasing the diversity and richness of API traditions.
Native American Student Services – 30 Years
For three decades, Native American Student Services has supported students through
culturally grounded resources, academic coaching, and a strong sense of community.
Alumni describe NASS as a place where they felt seen and supported. “NASS profoundly changed my life… When I was at NASS, I knew I was safe, cared for,
and respected,” recalls alumna Kaila Ward ’20.
The 30th anniversary will be celebrated at the 2nd Annual Powwow on Saturday, November 8, with traditional drums, dancers, and a community meal open to all attendees. Registration will be available later this fall via BearConnect.
Together, these anniversaries highlight decades of mentorship, celebration, and community at Ƶapp. All alumni and friends are invited to join us in honoring these milestones and reflecting on the lasting impact these centers have had on generations of Bears.
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