About SASC

Empowering Southeast Asian voices at Berkeley since 2000

Our Story

Founded in 2000 by student organizers, the Southeast Asian Student Coalition (SASC) was created to uplift Southeast Asian voices at UC Berkeley. From day one, our mission has centered on supporting students, celebrating culture, and building power with our communities.

We provide mentorship and leadership opportunities, host cultural and educational programs, and advocate for resources and representation on campus. Beyond Berkeley, we collaborate with local organizations and community members to share knowledge, amplify stories, and strengthen the SEAA ecosystem in the Bay Area.

Two decades later, our guiding belief remains the same: when students are supported and culture is honored, we all thrive.

Our History in Photos

Community gathering, archival photo
Students in discussion, archival photo
SASC early days, archival photo
Cultural performance, archival photo
Event crowd, archival photo
Speakers at event, archival photo
Workshop session, archival photo
Community celebration, archival photo
Group photo, archival photo

Get Involved

Join our community, volunteer, or partner with us. Questions or ideas? Email us at [email protected].

Our Mission Today

SASC advances the wellbeing and leadership of Southeast Asian American (SEAA) students and communities at UC Berkeley and beyond. We provide culturally-grounded mentorship, advocate for equity in higher education, and build spaces for connection, healing, and celebration—so every student can thrive and lead with pride in their identity.

Our Impact

25+ years

of sustained community impact

1,000+ students

supported across our programs

50+ events/year

centered on culture and community

200+ mentors & alumni

in our growing network

Our Values

Community

We cultivate belonging and mutual care across generations of SEAA students and families.

Culture

We uplift our histories, languages, and traditions as sources of strength and knowledge.

Advocacy

We organize for resources, representation, and educational equity for our communities.

Our Team

Directors
Ilene Park
Ilene Park

Internal Director

[email protected]
April Marie Le
April Marie Le

Internal Director

[email protected]
Lan Vy Nguyen
Lan Vy Nguyen

External Director, SEAM Director

[email protected]
Tyler Htut
Tyler Htut

Operations Director

[email protected]
Earn Maneenop
Earn Maneenop

PR Director

[email protected]
Khoa Nguyen
Khoa Nguyen

PR Director

[email protected]
Officers
Timothy Kwan
Timothy Kwan

Operations Officer

[email protected]
Krishna Sam
Krishna Sam

Internal Officer

[email protected]
Noah Brand
Noah Brand

Internal Officer

[email protected]

Our Programs

Southeast Asian Mentorship Program (SEAM)

Supporting and guiding SEA high school students through cultural education and university preparation, SEAM helps students navigate their journey to higher education while staying connected to their heritage.

To ensure students are well-prepared, informed, and equipped to thrive in their university journey as Southeast Asian students.

Southeast Asian Orientation (SEASO)

A welcoming space for incoming and current students to connect with SASC and the broader Southeast Asian community. Through community-bonding activities and alumni insights, we address the underrepresentation of Southeast Asian students at UC Berkeley.

To build a stronger, more empowered future for Southeast Asian students through community connection and support.

Southeast Asian Cultural Festival (SEACF)

Our flagship celebration bringing together various Southeast Asian organizations to showcase the rich diversity of their cultures through traditional dances, music, and regional arts.

To celebrate and promote the vibrant traditions of Southeast Asian countries while fostering cultural understanding and pride.

SEAgraduation

An intimate celebration honoring our graduating Southeast Asian seniors, providing a space where each student's unique journey and achievements are recognized and celebrated.

To acknowledge and celebrate the resilience and success of our Southeast Asian graduates.

Looking Forward

We envision a campus—and a world—where SEAA students are fully resourced, represented, and celebrated. In the years ahead, SASC will deepen partnerships across campus, expand mentorship and professional pipelines, and continue telling our stories with care and power.