The establishment of the Haas Dreamer’s Resource Center (2012) was made through a generous gift from Elise Haas, in honor of her father, Robert D. Haas.
Elise’s gift to the Undocumented Student Program recognizes her father’s longstanding success in championing equity and inclusion at UC Berkeley and celebrates the perseverance of undocumented students at Berkeley and beyond.
The Undocumented Student Program started with one half-time coordinator role. As the USP coordinator met with more undocumented students, it was clear that more robust and holistic support for undocumented students was needed.
Colleen, Elise and Robert D. Haas (left to right) at the opening of the first Dreamer’s Resource Center in 2012.
Students, staff, faculty, and allies celebrate at the Centers’ opening.
Since then, the Undocumented Student Program has grown and expanded to include holistic support services such as mental health support, immigration legal support, financial assistance, academic counseling, community gatherings, and fellowships.
In 2018, Elise Haas gave another gift for the creation of a larger center for undocumented students. This replaced the former center and became the Undocumented Community Resource Center, which opened its doors in February 2020.
Two students carrying the plaque for the new Undocumented Community Resource Center and Robert D. Haas to the right of them, at the Grand Opening celebration in February 2020.
Colleen, Elise, and Robert D. Haas at the grand opening of the Undocumented Community Resource Center.