In Their Own Words: AANHPI Heritage Month

“Being Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander means carrying the mana and aloha of my ancestors with me every day. As part of the AAPI community, I feel proud but also know there’s a responsibility to represent my ‘ohana and lahui wherever I go. As a student-athlete, that drives me to work harder and stay true to my roots. Every time I compete, I try to bring the spirit of kuleana (responsibility) and ho‘omau (perseverance) to honor where I come from and show what it means to be Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander with pride.” - Emma Napoleon, Women's Volleyball

“AAPI Heritage Month is more than just a celebration. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength we carry when we embrace our roots. As a Filipina-American student-athlete, this month is about uplifting our voices, owning our identities, and honoring the communities and cultures that have shaped us. It reminds us that representation matters, and that showing up as our whole selves, heritage and all, on the field, court, or track is something to be proud of. This month also gives us the chance to reflect and thank those who came before us, who opened doors and made it possible for us to dream bigger. I’m so grateful for the trailblazers who paved the way, and I hope to be that same kind of role model for the next generation.” - Jackie Acosta, Women's Track & Field

“I am proud to be Samoan and to represent a small percentage of Pacific Islanders. Growing up in a predominantly Asian American basketball community, I would often get mistaken for being Asian or Hawaiian. A part of what I was taught is to utilize every opportunity to show our pride in being a Pacific Islander. Within the basketball community, I can use that platform and bring awareness to the forgotten community of Pacific Islanders. Fa’a Samoa or also known as the Samoan way, has taught me the importance of different qualities, including God and Family. My family is everything to me. They are my biggest supporters and motivators. Having a close knit support system helps keep me grounded and motivated during tough times throughout my athletic journey. Being Samoan means you're part of a small but powerful global community. Being Samoan in a sport where Pacific Islanders are underrepresented can fuel a sense of purpose to break barriers and open doors for others. That’s why excelling in basketball allows me to represent my culture on a bigger stage, giving visibility and inspiration to others from similar backgrounds.” - Reese Noa, Women's Basketball

“AAPI Heritage Month is a time to celebrate a part of my identity often overlooked in mainstream narratives and to honor the strength and unity of the AAPI community. As an AAPI athlete in a sport where our faces are rarely seen, it’s more than just success. It’s about challenging stereotypes and showing that power, grit, and excellence come in many forms, including ours. As a proud Filipina, it’s important for me to embody the resilience, heart, and pride of my culture. I’m here to represent those who came before me and I want young AAPI girls to know they belong here and should be proud of their identity in any sport. AAPI Heritage Month is a celebration of how far we’ve come, but also a reminder to keep pushing forward.” - DeAna Davis, Women's Track & Field