Muslim Student Association Joins HVCC’s Ever-Growing Diverse Student Body

Submitted by Zaid Shehzhad

   The Muslim Student Association (MSA) is the newest addition to the growing list of clubs at our college, and it’s already making waves. Founded by its new President Zad and the Student Senate Treasurer Ameera, the MSA aims to provide a welcoming and supportive community for Muslim students on campus.

   Within its first week, the MSA has already attracted 60 members, a testament to the growing demand for a space where Muslim students can connect and share their experiences. With Ramadan currently underway, the club plans to host iftar dinners for members to break their fasts together and socialize. Members are welcome to join in Jummah on Fridays in the campus center’s interfaith chapel, as well. 

   In addition to providing a supportive space for Muslim students, the MSA is also working to raise awareness about halal food options on campus. The club is planning to work with the campus dining hall to offer more halal food options, and there are plans for a culture festival in the campus center where members can share their own cultural dishes.

   The MSA is also interested in advocating for the recognition of the Muslim holiday Eid as a day off from class, given the college’s substantial Muslim population and the fact that Eid is a nationally recognized holiday. 

   We at the MSA would love to collaborate with student activities and host events with other clubs, such as the super active Gardening and Horticulture club founded by Ellicia Swedish, the Black and Latino student union club, and the Foreign Culture club, just to name a few. We are also in talks with local university MSA’s such as Siena and UAlbany, which is very exciting.

   We can’t wait to see what the future holds for the MSA, and we encourage all students, even if you are not Muslim, to check out their upcoming events and get involved in this exciting new club.

   Checkout @HVCCMSA on instagram for more information!