Founded in April 1988, the Iranian Students Academic and Cultural Organization (ISACO) represents a legacy of community building at the University of Texas at Austin. Operating as an independent, non-profit student organization, ISACO has served the Austin, TX Iranian student community for over three decades with a steadfast commitment to academic support, cultural preservation, and meaningful social connection.
At its core, ISACO's mission centers on enhancing the lives of Iranian students through comprehensive support systems and vibrant cultural programming. The organization recognizes that Iranian students benefit from dedicated spaces to celebrate their heritage while navigating academic and personal transitions. ISACO creates these spaces through regular meetings, cultural events, and social gatherings that foster a sense of belonging within the UT Austin community.
What distinguishes ISACO is its holistic approach to student welfare. Beyond celebration, the organization actively assists non-native Persian speakers in their transition to American life, demonstrating deep commitment to peer support. ISACO also extends its values beyond the student body through charitable partnerships with OneStar Foundation, Children of Persia, and Refuge Services of Texas, channeling student energy toward community service.
The organization's annual Performing Arts Show has become a beloved tradition in Austin, showcasing the richness of Persian culture while supporting charitable causes. Campus-wide celebrations of Iranian holidays educate the broader university community about cultural traditions and foster cross-cultural understanding. Through sports participation, tabling events, and intentional relationship-building activities, ISACO creates an extended network that enriches the student experience at the University of Texas at Austin.
Austin, TX