A FILIPINO AMERICAN SOCIETY NEWSLETTER

JANUARY 2026

CONGRATULATIONS SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Satvika Anbukumar

Satvika is undecided on a university, but plans to study Health Sciences on a Pre-Medicine track.

As an International Club representative, Satvika helped create inclusive spaces where students engaged in cultural celebrations and discussions.

Kyleen Gribbins
Kyleen is planning on attending Simpson College studying Criminal Justice.

She wants to join the military after college and one day help bring her family to the U.S. from the Philippines.



Keelala Stolki

Keelala is planning on studying Graphic Design at Iowa State University.

She's been attending Filipino-American gatherings ever since she was young.



FEBRUARY 27: FAS NIGHT WITH THE IOWA WOLVES

We’re excited to announce that the Filipino American Society of Iowa is once again partnering with the Iowa Wolves for FAS Night 2026!

Join us on Friday, February 27, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. at Wells Fargo Arena – Section 102

Tickets are $40 each. $20 from every ticket goes directly to support the Filipino American Society of Iowa!

Don't miss out on our exclusive, limited-edition FAS-branded Iowa Wolves hats, available through the ticket link or for purchase at the event!

CLICK HERE to get your tickets.







APRIL 12: SCHOLARSHIP NIGHT AT TOPGOLF

Every year the Filipino American Society of Iowa offers an opportunity for students to apply for an academic scholarship.

Help raise money for this initiative in a fun way by attending a Night at Topgolf with FAS!

If you have any questions please reach out to Kimberly Grim Scholarship Chair for Questions at FAS.Scholarship@gmail.com

Maraming Salamat to Greater Iowa Credit Union

Donations to FAS help us continue our mission uplifting our community through cultural programming, education and service across Iowa.




MEET LAUREL HOWELL FAS BOARD SECRETARY

Where are you from?

"I am originally from Salt Lake City, Utah and now reside in Clive, Iowa for the last 22 years."

What does FAS mean to you?

"FAS has helped me find my connection to the Filipino Community here in Iowa. In Utah, my mother raised my younger brothers and I within the Filipino community there.

She made sure we learned about her side of our heritage, having us learn traditional dances, songs, foods and customs. When my husband moved us to Iowa, I found myself missing this connection in my life. In time, I found the Iowa Asian Alliance, which then led me to find the various Asian communities in Iowa and FAS."

What's something you enjoy doing in your spare time?

"In my spare time, I love spending time with family and friends. Volunteering my time, talent and treasures with my community wherever and whenever I can. I also enjoy camping, fishing, hiking and powerlifting."

What's your go-to karaoke song? 
"Sarah McLachlan: Angel or Vanessa Williams: Colors of the Wind"

Landfill Landslide
A deadly landfill collapse on Jan.8 claimed about 37 lives so far. The landslide occurred at the Binaliw landfill in Cebu City while more than 100 workers were on site. 

Authorities confirmed the remains of the victims from the landslide have been recovered, ending the search-and-rescue operations on Jan. 18. The incident has sparked calls for investigation as well as a review of the Philippines' waste management system.

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