Nyob Zoo Hmoles!

My name is Viva Yang ’01 and I am pleased to be the inaugural chair of the St. Olaf College Hmong Alumni Network.

Rewind to Autumn 1997. I can still remember taking my first steps “on the Hill” navigating between Hoyme Hall and the buildings around campus as an eager, curious, and excited first-year student, with the world at my feet. More than 20 years after graduation, I look back on my time at St. Olaf with the fondest memories, thanks to the many lessons learned, the highs and the lows, and the people I met along the way. I had the pleasure of building a community, and being part of the Hmong story at St. Olaf College. We’ve all been there.

But, the story goes on.

My connection to St. Olaf College doesn’t stop just because I graduated. I am proud to be an Ole and even prouder to a Hmong Ole, or a “Hmole”.

The Hmong Alumni Network is not just about nostalgia or the past. It is also very much about the future. I am grateful to the Hmoles who came before me, whose footsteps I have literally walked in. Each of us is part of the legacy of the story of the Hmong experience at St. Olaf College. For over 35 years, Hmong students have made the “Hill” their home. Each “era” has navigated the landscape in their own way, created spaces to gather, built connections, and made the most of their time on campus to go from surviving to thriving. I think about the Hmoles yet to make their mark.

With the Hmong Alumni Network and St. Olaf College behind us, we have an opportunity to connect beyond our respective eras and make an impact as alumni. As Hmoles through Hmong Alumni Network, our experiences not only continue to define the St. Olaf Hmong story, but in connection with current students, we can ensure and protect our legacy, bridge topics such as Hmong culture and identity, foster opportunities for professional development and leadership, and build community. The possibilities are endless.

Now that the Hmong Alumni Network has launched, we can only grow from here. Each Hmong Alumni Network event is an opportunity for you to continue the Hmong story at St. Olaf College, and make your mark.

We need your ideas, leadership, and action to continue this important work. If you have ideas, talents, or a voice to share, we would love to hear from you. Together, let’s make this happen. Thank you. Ua tsaug.

Viva Yang
Chair, Hmong Alumni Network, St. Olaf College
HmongAlumniNetwork@stolaf.edu