Honoring Heritage and Fostering Unity: A Spotlight on the Asian Student Association Club

Exploring Cultural Pride, Community Support, and Meaningful Connections Through Doherty’s Asian Student Association Club

Delilah Jean Gilles, Staff Writer

October 15, 2025

The Asian Student Association (ASA) at Doherty Memorial High School is a vibrant and welcoming club dedicated to celebrating Asian cultures, fostering community, and creating a space where students can connect, share, and learn. ASA offers students an opportunity to explore their heritage while building meaningful friendships.

What is the ASA Club?

The ASA club serves as a platform for students interested in Asian cultures to come together, share their experiences, and promote awareness of the rich diversity within Asia. The club is not only a cultural organization but also a supportive community where members can express their identities freely and confidently.

What Do We Do?

Throughout the school year, the ASA organizes a variety of activities and events designed to educate and engage both members and the wider student body. These include cultural celebrations during Lunar New Year and other significant holidays, as well as social gatherings. The club also participates in many fundraising events that are important to the members.

One of the unique aspects of ASA is the opportunity for members to share their own cultural traditions, whether through food, art, music, or storytelling. This exchange enriches the school community and encourages greater understanding and respect for diverse backgrounds.

Who Can Join?

ASA is open to all students, regardless of their ethnic background or prior knowledge of Asian cultures. The club welcomes anyone who is interested in learning more, celebrating diversity, and supporting an inclusive community. Whether you identify as Asian, are part of the diaspora, or simply want to be part of a culturally enriching experience, ASA invites you to join and be part of the conversation.

Quick Interview:

Here’s a quick interview with Doherty’s ASA Club president Andrew:

Q. How has the ASA club been progressing so far, and what impact do you feel it’s making within the school community?

“Right now we’re in the building phase. We’ve been brainstorming ideas for events and celebrations, just got our fundraising plan down, made new posters, and held elections. It’s still early but we’re laying the foundation to make the club really welcoming and impactful.”

Q. In what ways does being part of the ASA club resonate with you on an emotional, cultural, or ethnic level?

“Being in ASA hits different because I get to embrace my own culture and share it with everyone. It feels good to be proud of where I come from and see others getting excited about it too.”

Q. How do members of the ASA club express and celebrate their ethnicity and culture through the activities and events you organize? Could you share some examples?

“We plan fun stuff like Moon Festival lanterns, Tet celebrations, and sharing Asian snacks, music, and traditions. We also volunteer as a group or send out volunteer opportunities so we can give back while learning about culture.”

Q. What are your aspirations for the ASA club’s growth and success in the near future? How do you envision its role evolving within the school?

“I want ASA to grow into a big inclusive club where anyone can join, not just Asians. More events, volunteering, fundraisers, and fun ways to spread Asian culture and make a real impact at school.”

Q. I’ve heard that the ASA club is organizing a fundraising event. Could you tell me more about this initiative and how the funds raised will support the club’s goals?

“We’re doing a $1 boba raffle with three prizes: boba, Asian snacks, and Asian candies. Mr. Luong can sign up with cash. Money goes straight to events and activities so we can do more cultural stuff and grow the club.”