Meet Nissana Nov

Whitworth Cadre Two
'08 Graduate (B.A. Cross-Cultural Studies & French)
Henry Foss High School '04

A special child

All children are special to their parents, but few young ones grow up as central to an entire community of relatives and family friends as Nissana Nov, the first American-born in a family of Cambodian refugees. Exceptional care did not, however, translate into being spoiled Nissana clarifies. It has actually been quite the opposite. In addition to working for her family's convenient store and gas station, "I had responsibilities of upholding the wholeness of a family of many relatives; thus my role as a leader developed early," Nissana said.

The "B-word"

"Life also meant trying to achieve a balance between the traditional Cambodian culture and the American one," said Nissana. As a student at Foss High School in Tacoma, Nissana was socially versatile, not adhering to one group of friends. Besides her Cambodian cultural identity, her identity as a musician remained consistent through her involvement in band. "My clarinet took me to different events, shows, concerts, games, and parades," she explains. Careful not to let her occupation with music interfere with academics, nor her commitment to community service, she worked hard in and out of the classroom. Some of her involvement included teaching and making art with children and leading the National Honor Society.

Peers and Profs

"My positive experiences [at Whitworth] have outweighed the hardships," Nissana reflects. When the hard times do arise, Nissana finds refuge in conversing with peers. After most in depth discussions with other students, she says, "I come away more inspired and invigorated." Another form of support Nissana recognizes as instrumental to her success at Whitworth has been Whitworth faculty. "They extend their roles beyond that of teaching," she said. "When I can comfortably talk to them about pertinent issues and seek help, boundaries disappear."

Raising awareness

As a Cultural Diversity Advocate, Nissana has had the opportunity to collaborate with other Resident Assistants and Directors, faculty, and staff to create programs that promote cultural awareness for dorm and campus-wide events. In search of an opportunity to broaden her own cultural awareness, Nissana took advantage of a study abroad program during her junior year that took her to Europe, North Africa and Asia. "My travels have been about new discoveries, which I've come to embrace and appreciate," she reflects.

Going in peace

Upon graduating with a degree in Cross-Cultural Studies, with minors in French and Peace Studies, Nissana will continue pursuing ways of engaging her passion for culture and love for people. Admitting that her career goals are not yet clear, she envisions herself working at the grassroots level to promote human rights and advancing opportunities for marginalized populations. Since being bitten by the travel bug, however, Nissana can now also see herself working with some form of a peace initiative overseas. No matter where in the world Nissana's passions take her, expect her to be ready for the challenge, with a fire in her heart and a peaceful smile on her face.

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