AMENAAA
A Warm Welcome from AMENAAA
AMENAAA is a multi-racial, multi-faith, multi-ethnic, multilingual, and gender-diverse working group of campus community members at Bronx Community College who recognize and celebrate our institution’s long, rich history of diversity and inclusion. Founded in 2024, we bring together students, faculty, and staff to celebrate the diversity of Middle Eastern, North African, and Asian American communities through programming, events, and student recognition.
What You’ll Experience
Student Support & Recognition
AMENAAA recognizes student achievement through the annual AMENAAA Student Award and mentorship opportunities for BCC students.
Cultural Programming
We host events and programs that reflect the diversity of our campus, including celebrations like our annual Diwali tabling event.
Community Building
All students are welcome to join our events, connect with peers who share similar backgrounds and experiences, and build community across campus. Whether you’re looking to celebrate your heritage, find connection, or simply show up — there’s a place for you here.
Student Award
The AMENAAA Student Award ($200) is given annually to a graduating BCC student with ties to, or demonstrated interest in, Middle Eastern and/or North African and/or Asian American communities, culture, and heritage. The award is presented in person at the Graduation Awards Ceremony held on campus each May.
Events & Highlights
Diwali Tabling Event
Co-sponsored by AMENAAA and the Office of Student Diversity Initiatives
Tuesday, October 21, 2025
Colston Hall, 5th Floor
(Weather permitting, the event will be held outdoors)
We will have music, snacks, refreshments, and more information about the AMENAAA Student Award. See you soon, Broncos.
Student Award Winners
Raghunandan Kumar
Major: Accounting
Raghunandan has excelled in his classes, and enjoyed opportunities outside of the classroom. He participated in the CUNY India Study Abroad Program to Govardhan Ecovillage with fellow CUNY students, and participated in the Deloitte MADE conference. Raghunandan will transfer to Baruch College this fall, where he intends to pursue a bachelors degree in Accounting.
“Born and raised in India, my identity is deeply connected to the cultures, traditions, and histories of South Asia. At BCC, one of the most diverse institutions in the country, I have actively engaged with peers from various backgrounds, exchanging ideas on identity, representation, and global interconnectedness.”
Rahman Nawaz
Major: Business Administration
Rahman has excelled in his classes, and contributed heavily to campus life including participating in this year’s African Parade, serving as a student officer for the BCC Muslim Student Association, and winning first place at BCC’s Financial Empowerment Summit. Rahman will transfer to Baruch College this fall, where he intends to pursue a degree in Data Science with a focus on statistics and quantitative modeling.
“Growing up in Pakistan, I developed strong values that emphasize family, respect, and community. This connection had a significant impact on my personal and professional life here at BCC.”
Get Involved
Students, faculty, and staff are welcome to participate in AMENAAA events, programs, and community initiatives.
Contact
Email: amenaaa@bcc.cuny.edu
Instagram: @bccunyamenaaa
Founding Members
Dr. Farnaz Kaighobadi (Social Sciences)
Dr. Hisseine Faradj (Social Sciences)
Dr. Jawied Nawabi (Social Sciences)
Prof. Marie Varghese (CUNY Start)
Dr. Prithi Kanakamedala (History)
Dr. Sharmila Mukherjee (English)
