Huntington News

Issue date: 8/1/07 Section: News

Media Credit: News Staff Photo/Pam Asen Andrew Shen

After teaching high school history for several years, Andrew Shen decided he wanted to experience something different within the education field. He wasn't looking for a job at Northeastern, but in February 2005 the position as director of the university's new Asian American Center (AAC) came across his path.

"It was like serendipity, I guess," Shen said, stating that he found the idea of addressing Asian-American issues in a higher education setting appealing.

After three years, Shen announced he is leaving Northeastern to go back to graduate school.

Ed Klotzbier, vice president for student affairs, announced Shen's departure on the myNEU portal July 18.

"Those who know Andrew understand what an asset he has been to Northeastern since his arrival here three years ago," Klotzbier said in a statement. "Andrew was instrumental in the creation of this world-class cultural center and developed programs, initiatives and events that have greatly benefited Northeastern."

Klotzbier also announced the center's assistant director, Delia Hom, will assume the acting director position starting Sept. 1.

While Asian student organizations existed prior to 2005, Shen led the first university sponsored center.

"Even though groups existed, [the center] could create a more cohesive community and connect to the entire university," he said.

The AAC moved into 109 Hemenway St. a little more than a year ago.

"I think because [Shen] was the first director, for a long time I think he embodied the center," Hom said. "He was here before the physical center, and had a large role in shaping where it would go and its personality."

Katherine Hou, a junior political science major, worked for Shen as one of his first work studies when he came to the university. Hou said Shen's responsiveness to student input has helped the center grow and expand.

"It's been amazing. He's really receptive to student involvement, so if we have ideas or plans he'll hear us out," Hou said. "He usually gives us initiative to go with it."

Student input had a large impact when the university decided to move into the building on Hemenway Street, Hou said, including the creation of the "Billiard Room," which serves as a place where students can gather and relax.

"[It's an] easy place for people to come by and hang out. Andrew's door is always open. It's just so welcoming," she said.

Continued...

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