Oceania Scholars Program (OSP)
About Oceania Scholars Program
OSP is a community-responsive and culturally informed initiative. We support Pacific Islander and other under-served Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) students by fostering a sense of belonging and promoting both personal and academic success.
Program Origins
OSP was created through a partnership between the Critical Pacific Islands and Oceania Studies (CPIOS) Minor Program and the AAPI Student Services Office (now named ASPIRE). OSP launched in Fall 2024 to address long-standing advocacy for Pacific Islander student support at SFSU.
Our Mission
Our goal is to ensure every student feels included, supported and ready to achieve their goals. We help students with their classes, offer guidance and share resources that reflect their cultural backgrounds. We also help students grow into leaders who stay actively engaged in their communities.
The Oceania Scholars Program is open to all. Anyone who’s interested in our activities and resources is welcome, regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin.
Support OSP
If you would like to donate to our program, please write “Oceania Scholars Program” in the Additional Instructions box on the donation form.
Our Values
We actively nurture our connections with others. Rooted in the Tongan language, tauhi vā reminds us that relationships require attention, responsibility and love. Through service, leadership and support, we keep our communities strong.
We show deep respect for our cultures, our elders and one another. Faka‘apa‘apa in Tongan, or Fa’aaloalo in Samoan, guides how we speak, act and learn together. It reminds us to honor our roots and treat all people with dignity.
Love is at the heart of our work. Whether we say aloha in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi or aroha in Maori, we are committed to caring for one another, lifting each other up and building a community where everyone feels seen and supported.
Highlights from OSP Events
Pacific Islander Community Resources
PasifikaByDesign
Location: San Francisco, CA
Samoan Community Development Center
Location: San Francisco, CA