Araceli Suzara has been named director of the Filipino-American Student Cultural Center. The center, which opened in December, is a place where Filipino-American students and community members can come together to learn more about their culture from speakers, events and a resource library.

As the new director, Suzara hopes to create a "supportive environment for students to gather, exchange ideas and find mutual support and encouragement by interacting with members of the larger Filipino-American community who will serve as resources and role models."

Her vision also includes the promotion of courses in Filipino and Filipino-American studies, and academic programs and internships that integrate academic and community service.

Prior to coming to Old Dominion, Suzara served as assistant professor of sociology and adjunct professor of adult studies at Spring Arbor College in Michigan. She also lectured in sociology at Loyola University of Chicago and the University of Wisconsin-Parkside.

Her research interests include the examination of adaptation paradigms of Filipino women in interracial marriages, plus a host of social issues. She has also done critical research on race and ethnicity in the Filipino community.

Suzara, a native of Manila, Philippines, received her bachelor's degree in education from Assumption College in Manila and a master's and doctorate in sociology from Loyola University of Chicago.