South Pacific Islander Organization 501(c)3

Pacific Islanders remain underrepresented in higher education, professional fields, and in the media today. Often limited in opportunities in their home communities, Pacific Islanders need resources and support to pursue higher education, secure professional positions, and access economic opportunities. South Pacific Islander Organization (SPIO) is a 100% grassroots nonprofit founded in December 2018 by four Indigenous and Pacific Islander Stanford alumni who believe in democratizing Pacific Islander access to higher education and economic opportunities, globally. They came together in response to the lack of cohesive Pacific representation in higher education, professional fields, and in the media. SPIO's mission is to innovatively support and promote Pacific Islander voices, cultures, and communities through leadership development, storytelling, and community-building programs. SPIO's current international Advisory Council and Board of Directors leverage a diversity of expertise across government, corporate, higher education, and nonprofit fields which fuel their inclusive, cross-collaborative, and metrics-driven strategic plan. SPIO's strength lies in its inclusive vision, international network, community-building capacity, digital reach, and online following. Some of their highlights to date include establishing a 501(c)3 within 6 months of incorporation, reaching over 50,000+ organic international website views in 2 years, and launching 6 digital pilot programs to increase Pacific Islander presence in higher education and professional fields.