The Lao Student Association’s commitment to retaining the intricate and rich heritage of the Lao community hosts an annual Lao New Year celebration on April 19, 2026 open to the University and the public! We hope to have an impact on students, their families, and other members of the community by educating our attendees about Lao culture, gaining appreciation for Lao heritage, and strengthening the Lao community in Minnesota. Our Lao New Year celebration is a way to foster a safe, empowering environment for the connection and amplify Lao and greater APIDA voices.

These funds will go towards catering from local Lao restaurants, venue fees, and covering the costs of our performers from local and external organizations. Raising these funds ensures that we can provide access to this event for free so that all members and friends of the community can celebrate Lao New Year with us joyously!

We are gracious for all donations as we plan for an educational and exciting Lao New Year show!

About Us:

The 2025-26 Lao Student Association’s (LSA) goal is to, “Encourage our community to celebrate one another through honoring Lao culture, history, and identity.” We work to emphasize the importance of embracing the traditions and heritage of the Lao people. By instilling this mindset of honoring our relationship with our cultural roots and upbringings, we hope that future generations will continue to carry on the legacy. The Lao community at the University is small but passionate; We are empowered by one another to create an enriching environment that helps us hone in on our connection with our identity through uplifting each other through supportive communication, recreation, and creativity. In order to preserve the Lao culture, the Lao Student Association hopes to provide a space of comfort for those wanting to connect with themselves, the community, or to simply spread the appreciation of Lao history and identity to University of Minnesota students and faculty, along with our community in Minnesota.

We hope to sustain inclusivity and equity by working towards an initiative of awareness; moreover, LSA wishes to amplify the needs of the community as well as foster a safe, empowering environment for the connection and amplification of Lao and greater APIDA voices. Overall, we wish to nurture a space for the community to share, learn, and discuss Lao culture and traditions. The Lao Student Association hopes to promote equitable development, as we work towards educating and sharing valuable perspectives.

Thank you,

Lao Student Association

2025-26

Pictured above: LSA 2025-2026 Board Members