September, 2025

Dear RUCAA Alumni and Friends,

It is with deep gratitude and great anticipation that I write to you today as we officially relaunch the Rice University Community of Asian Americans (RUCAA) — a dedicated alumni network committed to connection, culture, and community.

RUCAA was originally created to bring together Rice alumni of Asian descent — across generations, industries, and experiences — united by shared roots, values, and a desire to support one another. After a period of dormancy, we’re proud to be relaunching RUCAA with renewed vision and energy, built on four guiding pillars that reflect who we are and what we stand for:

Global Network
Rice alumni of Asian descent span every corner of the world. RUCAA seeks to tap into this rich global network — connecting graduates across regions, professions, and backgrounds. Whether you’re in Houston, Hong Kong, or Hyderabad, you are part of a powerful, growing diaspora. We aim to create opportunities for meaningful global connection through events, mentorship, and professional collaboration.

Community Building
We believe that strong relationships are the foundation of any lasting organization. RUCAA is committed to fostering a vibrant, intergenerational community of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) alumni. Through reunions, chapter events, alumni spotlights, and casual meetups, we hope to create a space where members feel seen, heard, and supported — wherever life has taken them after Rice.

Student Support
Our commitment doesn’t stop with alumni. RUCAA is also here to uplift the next generation. We will partner closely with Rice’s AAPI student organizations and departments to provide mentorship, career guidance, scholarships, and a visible network of role models. Our experiences matter — and they can light the way forward for students navigating college and identity in an increasingly complex world.

Cultural Engagement
RUCAA celebrates the richness, diversity, and complexity of the Asian American experience — not only through heritage celebrations but through critical engagement with history, identity, and advocacy. We will curate events, conversations, and resources that reflect the full spectrum of our cultural identities and encourage continued learning and reflection as a community.

This relaunch marks a new beginning — and a long-overdue one. Our stories matter. Our presence matters. And our collective voice is more important than ever.

As we rebuild and grow, I invite you to be part of this journey. Whether it’s attending an event, mentoring a student, contributing your story, or simply reconnecting, your presence makes RUCAA stronger.

Thank you to everyone who has helped bring this vision back to life. This is only the beginning.

With pride and purpose,
Andrew Lin
President, RUCAA
Rice University