Joy Cox, BA'98, MD'02, is president of the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) Association of Vanderbilt Alumni. The AAVA embodies the transformative power of connection and cultural identity-all from a place of gratitude. The daughter of Vietnamese refugees who immigrated to the United States in the 1970s, Cox grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee, before attending Vanderbilt for her undergraduate studies and medical school.
She and her husband, whom she met during her residency, maintain strong ties to the university. "Vanderbilt has given me so much, both personally and professionally," Cox says. "It's more than just the degree I obtained-it's the experience, the community. It's truly shaped who I am and who my family is."
Cox's involvement with AAVA represents a full-circle moment. While she was not part of the APIDA student organizations during her undergraduate years, her current role has helped her reconnect with Vanderbilt. "Being invited to be on the AAVA affinity board is not only healing for me; it also has continued to help me grow and reidentify my heritage," Cox shared.
It's more than just the degree I obtained-it's the experience, the community. It's truly shaped who I am and who my family is.
Though Cox is only the organization's second president, AAVA has quickly gained momentum with more than 10,000 members. The group strengthens the presence of the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American community through cultural celebrations and networking events, collaborating with student organizations to connect alumni with current Vanderbilt students, and all are welcome to participate. Working closely with the university's Career Center, AAVA continues to expand its reach and impact through mentorship and professional development opportunities.
"We want a place for people to land," Cox says, highlighting AAVA's commitment to fostering a welcoming environment and providing representation for both alumni and current students. For Cox, leading AAVA is about creating pathways for others to discover their own meaningful relationship with Vanderbilt. Her passion lies not only in giving back, but in helping others find ways to engage with and contribute to the university community.
-Lauren Ayers
