After a period of inactivity, the Filipino American Students of Oakland University (FASOU) has returned.

At the beginning of the fall 2025 semester, student leaders reinstated the group to create a space where Filipino students, as well as those interested in Filipino culture, could gather, connect, and share traditions.

The revival of FASOU reflects a growing interest among students to maintain cultural connections and build community on campus.

FASOU President Sam Lozano said the decision to restart the organization began with conversations among Filipino students who realized the campus no longer had an active Filipino cultural organization.

Recognizing the need for a dedicated space, student leaders collaborated to bring FASOU back, with a focus on creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students.

To set a warm and inviting tone, the organization greeted students at its first meeting of the year with an open-door atmosphere. A Jollibee plushie was placed at the entrance as students arrived, serving as a familiar cultural touchstone and signaling that the space was welcoming to anyone interested in Filipino culture.

Small details like this, Lozano said, help make students feel immediately connected and at ease.

FASOU Vice President Veronica Jakosalem, who also goes by Nica, said involvement in the organization has strengthened connections on campus.

Jakosalem emphasized that FASOU provides a space for students to engage with others who share Filipino cultural experiences and traditions, fostering a sense of belonging.

FASOU held its first meeting of the year on Wednesday, Jan. 28, in Gold Room A at the Oakland Center. The meeting included presentations, interactive games and opportunities for discussion, giving students a chance to learn more about Filipino culture while forming new friendships.

Freshman Lyra Basas, a clinical diagnostic sciences major, said attending the meeting helped her build connections with others who value Filipino culture.

“The schools I attended in the past had culturally related clubs, but they never had a Filipino club. When I saw that Oakland University had a Filipino club at GrizzFest last fall, I was excited and wanted to join,” she said.

Basas waited until the winter semester to attend a meeting while adjusting to college life.

“Attending FASOU’s first meeting of the year meant meeting people who value the same culture I do,” Basas said. “It didn’t matter if everyone there was Filipino. What mattered was that we all valued Filipino culture and wanted to learn more about it.”

She added that the meeting encouraged further involvement and helped her reconnect with her heritage.

“I met some amazing people who made me want to participate in more events. I also learned more about Filipino communication styles through presentations and games, and I was able to practice speaking Tagalog,” Basas said.

Lozano said the executive board hopes the organization will continue to grow throughout the year as more students learn about FASOU.

The group plans to host cultural events that highlight Filipino traditions, food and community.

Board members emphasized that FASOU aims to create an inclusive environment where students of all backgrounds can learn about Filipino culture while building friendships and strengthening campus connections.