Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in Higher Education

By the year 2050, the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) population in the United States is expected to more than double, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Recent reports indicate that more AAPI students are experiencing difficulties attaining academic success in colleges and universities than in the past.

Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in Higher Education: Research and Perspectives on Identity, Leadership, and Success presents a compilation of statistical reports, research findings, and experiential accounts that counters the lack of information about this population. Although the community of AAPI students and professionals in higher education is relatively small, it is significant and diverse. The model minority stereotype, which positions AAPIs as well adjusted, well mannered, smart, hardworking, and from financially well-off families, has cloaked the very real struggles and challenges this population faces on college and university campuses. It has resulted in AAPIs being largely invisible or excluded from conversations, research, and policies related to diversity and equity in higher education.

The authors, who represent a wide range of institutional experiences throughout the United States, probe deeply and challenge current perceptions, even among those within the group. Through the authors’ research and narratives, the book gives voice and visibility to AAPI students and student affairs professionals. Some chapters are written in the context of racial history, power, and hierarchy in society and campuses consistent with Critical Race Theory and race formation scholarship.

Policy makers and responsible campuses must prepare themselves to address the underrepresentation and projected growth of AAPIs as a group and for specific AAPI subgroups in higher education. This essential book will help faculty, administrators, and educational policy makers who seek to advance learning outcomes for students of all ethnicities and strengthen the position of AAPI student affairs professionals. Such action will invigorate the effectiveness and success of colleges and universities that aspire to achieve true diversity and inclusion.

Praise for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in Higher Education

“This volume fills a void in our professional literature. It combines theory, research, and personal experiences and focuses on both professionals in student affairs and students. I believe it will be an important addition to the professional library of student affairs professionals and urge that it be carefully read.” —MARGARET J. BARR, professor emeritus, Northwestern University

“Policy makers and community leaders as well as students, academic and student affairs administrators, faculty, and staff will find value in this book. The chapters present historical and current information on the status, aspirations, and emerging issues facing our campuses and Asian American and Pacific Islanders in higher education. Readers will find interesting data, analysis, personal and theoretical perspectives, and recommendations that will advance our community and national efforts for educational excellence and inclusiveness.” —FRANK CHONG, president, Santa Rosa Junior College

“The book fills a significant gap in our knowledge and understanding of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. It showcases not just the strengths but also the vulnerabilities of a fast-growing and significant segment of our society. It highlights the struggles this population encountered to gain visibility and recognition as active participants in higher education institutions and society as a whole.” —A. GABRIEL ESTEBAN, president, Seton Hall University

“The authors’ research and accounts shed deeper understanding on the needs and achievements of this growing and diverse population. Higher education’s positive response to the book’s call to action will provide much desired change to increase the voice and visibility of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders within and outside of the classroom on college and university campuses.” —JACINTA TITIALII-ABBOTT, chair, Asian and Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund Board of Directors

Hardcover | 2012 | 400 pages

ISBN 978-0-931654-60-2