Founded in 1983, the Indian American Student Association serves to promote various aspects of Indian culture and heritage through an assortment of events that raise political, social, and cultural awareness, as well as fulfill goals aimed at community building, service, and professional development. Furthermore, IASA strives to build a network of South Asian students as well as develop connections within the broader campus community. IASA is a space for members to create friendships and bonds that will last a lifetime. We seek to preserve and celebrate Indian and South Asian culture while forging ahead and evolving as a community. The organization allows members to become active in social, cultural, and professional arenas. We provide opportunities for students to connect with each other, while building bridges with other student groups and the broader university community. 

 

One of the many events that IASA created is the South Asian Awareness Network (SAAN), a forum that brings hundreds of students together to examine political, social and cultural issues affecting South Asians. In 1997 IASA established the Gandhi Day of Service, an event credited with mobilizing over 250 University students and allowing them to participate in community service activities throughout Southeast Michigan in the name of peace and unity. This day is now a national day of community service observed in over 35 states. One of the most anticipated and highly regarded IASA events is the annual charity Cultural Show. The show aims to preserve Indian culture through a fusion of dance, music, theatre, and art, while actively giving back to the community, culminating in the largest student-run production in North America.