Auditions for COLORED GIRLS

Auditions for COLORED GIRLS will be held:
Date: August 23 - August 25, 2011
Time: To Be Announced
Place: Drama Department's John Wright & Woods theaters at Fresno State

Those auditioning must have two, 2 minute monologues ready to present.

The director will be hosting a pre-audition workshops to answer all questions, discuss the play and provide an orientation to the audition process

Date: Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Time: 6 to 8pm
Place: Fresno State, Speech Arts Room 26 (the conference room.)

If you have questions please contact Thomas Ellis at thomee2@att.net or 323 620 0132.

Understanding Black Gender

Understanding Black Gender: A Student-Run Conference

Featured Presentation by Phyllis Jackson, Ph.D. (Pomona College)

Date: Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Place: Alice Peters Auditorium (PB 191)

Sponsored by the Provost’s Office, Technology Innovations for Learning and Teaching (TILT) & Commitment to Latina/o Academic Success & Excellence (CLASE)

For more information, please call 278-8805 or email Hasan T. Johnson at thjohnson@csufresno.edu

Africa, the Next Chapter

International Coffee Hour

Date: March 15, 2011
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Place: Fresno State Henry Madden Library
Room 2206

Topic – Africa, the Next Chapter
Presenter – Chisanga Chanda

This week the ‘Focus on Africa’ series concludes with ‘Africa: The Next Chapter’. Chisanga Chanda, a junior majoring in Political Science and Philosophy, will discuss a number of issues important to many African countries, including the impact of foreign aid.

Several African scholars have criticized the amount of foreign aid given to some African nations. Today, the continent of Africa faces cycles of corruption, slower economic growth, and extreme poverty. In order to progress, some argue that a good start would be to eliminate Foreign Aid. Is this a valid suggestion? What are other ways to curb, reduce, and perhaps eliminate some of the economic ills of this great continent?

Join us to gain insight on how some of Africa's challenges might best be addressed as we discuss how other nations are dealing with these problems, and explore solutions suggested by some scholars.

If you have questions, please e-mail David Rasiah at davidrasiah7@mail.fresnostate.edu or Lucien Nana at nanalucien@mail.fresnostate.edu

**** International Coffee Hour, Exploring Global Diversity on Campus for the Past 18 Years (1993-2011) ****

An Evening with Terry McMillan

Date: Saturday, February 12, 2011
Time: 7 p.m.
Place: California State University, Fresno
Satellite Student Union

Best-Selling author of Waiting to Exhale and How Stella Got Her Groove Back, Terrry McMillan will speak in depth on her latest novel, Getting to Happy. McMillan is the winner of both an NAACP Image Award and an Essence Award.

For more information call 278-2741 or visit www.auxiliary.com/USU

This event is free and open to the public

Africana Studies Presents a Panel Discussion on the State of the Union

Africana Studies Presents a Panel Discussion on the State of the Union

Date: Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Place: Fresno State
Peters Business Center 191

Moderator: Professor Malik Simba, Coordinator Africana Studies Program
Panelists:
Professor Jeffrey Cummins, Department of Political Science, “Evaluating the Obama Presidency: The First TwoYears and Beyond”
Professor Michael R. Becker, Department of Political Science, “Obama/Clinton II: The New Left Plutocracy”
Professor Thomas Holyoke, Department of Political Science, “The Reaction of the Right to the First Two Years of the Obama Presidency and What Might be Yet to Come”

Poetry Jam

Date: Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Time: 6:30pm - 9:30pm
Place: California State University Fresno
Bucket Grill and Pub

Hosted: Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc.: Gamma XI Chapter and Black Students United
Mixed By: DJ Kay Rich

Come out for a night of fun, and open mic. We are always looking for new poets as well as new audience members. If you do poetry, rap, sing, dance or just want something fun to do during the week then the POETRY JAM is the place to be! If you have, any questions do not hesitate to hit us up.

If you missed our last Poetry Jam, check out our Photos from our December Jam….. We are sure you won’t want to miss this one…. Arrive early for a seat… See yah there!

Evening of Elegence

You are cordially invited to join us as we celebrate Fresno State’s 100th birthday and recognize Fresno State students at

The Evening of Elegance

Date: Saturday, December 11, 2010
Time: 6 pm to 12 midnight
Place: Ramada Inn University
324 E. Shaw Avenue (at Highway 41)
Fresno, CA

This semi-formal scholarship banquet unites Fresno State faculty and staff, Fresno State alumni, and the community to recognize and support current students in their academic endeavors.

Although tickets may be purchased through Friday, December 10 (or until sold out), we respectfully request your RSVP by Friday, December 3.

Please consider sponsoring some Fresno State student tickets or buying a table for your group.

Tickets may be purchased online or by check with attached registration form. For more information, contact Ozeme at 559-323-8300 or Ozeme@eveningofelegancefresno.com. You can also visit the website at www.eveningofelegancefresno.com

"What Does College Have to Do with Me?" Entry Form (Group)

Video Entry Form Group Update

"What Does College Have to Do with Me?" Entry Form (Individual)

Video Entry Form_UPDATE

Fresno State Alumni Ramsey Jay Jr. Keynote Speaker for Fresno State's 29th Annual African American Student Recruitment Conference

This year Fresno State's 29th Annual African American High School Recruitment Conference will feature special guest keynote Ramsey Jay, Jr.

RAMSEY JAY, JR.

Ramsey Jay, Jr. is a nationally sought after keynote speaker and recognized as a leading expert on developing leaders having received the following honors: EBONY Magazine top “30 Young Leader Under 30”, chaperone for Compton High School & Ray Charles Memorial Library White House delegation, Socrates Society member at the Aspen Institute, delegate for the Turkish Cultural Foundation’s Tour to Istanbul.

Ramsey earned his Bachelors Degree in Business Administration, with an emphasis in finance, from the Craig School of Business at California State University, Fresno where he was also a five-time all conference track and field athlete. Additionally, Ramsey graduated with a Masters in Business Administration from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College.

Ramsey is employed at Ares Management, an alternative investment management firm specializing in managing assets in both the private equity and leveraged finance markets. At Ares Ramsey is responsible for North American institutional business development.

Ramsey Jay Jr. will be delivering the keynote at this year's African American Student Recruitment Conference. The theme of this year’s African American High School Student Recruitment Conference is “Fresno State’s Got Talent."

Date: Saturday, November 20, 2010
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM
(Check-in is from 9 - 9:50 AM)

Place: California State University, Fresno
Satellite Student Union
2485 E. San Ramon
Fresno, CA 93740

It’s a FREE all day event with workshops, lunch and guest speakers.

TO SEE CONFERENCE DETAILS AND REGISTER GO TO: http://2010hsaarc.eventbrite.com

Pre-registration is REQUIRED. The Deadline for registration is November 6, 2010.

Workshops offered include:

The A-G Team – This workshop is designed to help students develop a clearer understanding of how to prepare for college.

America’s Next Top Graduate – The transition from high school to college can be a difficult one. This workshop can help you navigate the transition from high school to college. Are you up to the challenge?

So You Think You Can Transfer? – Attend this workshop to have all your transfer questions answered by an expert.

The Secret Life of the African American College Student – Our panel of students are ready to share details about their college experience with you. Come and hear Fresno State’s African American students share what they have learned.

Wipeout: How to Enjoy College without Destroying Your G.P.A. – In this workshop you will learn tips for keeping a balance between school and fun.

FlashForward: Planning Your College Future – This workshop is designed to help you figure out which majors are in line with your career choices.

The Apprentice: Networking Your Way to Success – This workshop is designed to help you learn how to network with peers and professionals.
True Beauty: Being Beautiful in America – This workshop provides attendees with the tools for building self confidence, creating healthy relationships, and celebrating their own uniqueness.

Survivor: Boys and Men of Color in America – This workshop talks about the challenges facing African American males and the ways to overcome them.

CSI Fresno State: Financial Aid Edition – This workshop will discuss the different types of financial aid and ways to navigate the financial aid system. Join us and get clued in.

“What Does College Have to Do With Me?” Video Contest

“What Does College Have to Do with Me?”.
The purpose of the “What Does College Have to Do with Me?” Video Contest is to encourage and challenge student groups to use their creativity in producing a video demonstrating how attending college will change their world.

Who May Enter
This competition is open to all 9th through 12th grade students enrolled in Fresno, Madera, Tulare, and Kings County High Schools. Entrants may be individuals or groups, including student clubs and organizations. Students must have maintained significant control over the content and aesthetics of the video (producing, directing, writing, shooting, editing, etc.).

To register for the What Does College Have to Do with Me?” go to http://2010aarcvideo.eventbrite.com

For Entry Forms, Participant Release Forms, or information please email Tanya Crabb at tcrabb@csufresno.edu.

Video Submissions must be mailed to:

Tanya Crabb
University Outreach Services
California State University, Fresno
5150 N. Maple Avenue, M/S JA59
Fresno, CA 93740-8026

Video Submission Do’s and Don’ts

THE DO'S

• Have your video be G-rated
• Have your parents permission if you are under 18
• Have permission of owner if you are on private property
• Submit your registration form and video no later than October 31, 2010.

THE DON'TS:

• Take any risks that could cause personal injury or destruction of property.
• Promote or attack brand names
• Involve illegal activities
• Have inappropriate language or activities

Prizes
Three (3) winning entries will receive cash prizes

Contest Deadline
Entries must be postmarked by October 31, 2010 to be eligible for this contest. Video submissions are not complete until release forms and an entry form is competed and received by Fresno State University Outreach Services.

Mail your video entry (2 DVDs) , Entry Form, Participant Release forms, and any Copyright Releases), postmarked by October 31, 2010 to:

Tanya Crabb
University Outreach Services
California State University, Fresno
5150 N. Maple Avenue, M/S JA59
Fresno, CA 93740-8026

Entry Form and Participant Release Forms (permissions) by all participants seen or heard in the video MUST accompany video submission.

Entry Guidelines

1. Videos must be no longer than 30 seconds in length and should answer the question, “What Does College Have to Do with Me?"
2. Entrants may submit more than one entry, but only ONE (1) prize will be awarded per individual or club. Entrants must complete one entry form for each entry submitted. There is no fee to enter.
3. We encourage funny and creative content, but keep it clean. Entrants must submit TWO (2) DVDs copies for each entry. No tapes or other formats will be accepted. Online submissions cannot be accepted. DVDs must be properly labeled with the student’s/group’s name, title of the work, and length.
4. Entries must be reasonably high quality copies. Copies should be checked for readability and quality before submission. Copies that cannot be played properly will not be judged.
5. DVDs submitted will not be returned. DO NOT send originals, masters, or anything considered one-of-a-kind. California State University, Fresno cannot assume liability for damage or loss.
6. Entries submitted must NOT be posted or used elsewhere. Winning entries become the property of California State University, Fresno and may not be posted or used elsewhere without permission from Fresno State.
7. Entrants may not use any material that is proprietary to a third party or otherwise protected by intellectual property laws. Any entrant whose work includes likenesses of third parties or contains elements not owned by the entrant (such as, but not limited to, music, trademarks or logos) must be able to provide written consent/permission from the owner or an authorized representative of the owner. Without these releases, entrants must, for example, refrain from commercial elements, including copyrighted music and showing product logos on T-shirts and in backgrounds. Entrants will be fully liable under the law for any copyright or other intellectual property violations.
8. All identifiable participants in the video (actors, interviewees, background crowd, announcers, etc.) must give permission (release) for the use of their images or voices in the video. Their names and signatures must be provided on the forms provided and attached to the application. For those participants under age 18, parental/guardian permission must also be given on those forms. If the entrant is under age 18, parental/guardian, club adviser, or other adult sponsor permission must be given on the application form. Entrants should be sure to check all statements for accuracy.

Judging Criteria

• Entries will be judged on originality/creativity, effectiveness of the message, motivation and inspiration, overall impact and production. A panel of qualified judges chosen by California State University, Fresno will judge the entries. The decision of the judges is final.
• Winners will be notified at the Fresno State African American Recruitment Conference on Saturday, November 20, 2010.
• California State University, Fresno reserves the right to use the winning entries at its discretion, including posting the winning entries on the California State University, Fresno website as well as other Internet sites and/or airing the winning entries on television or radio stations. Winning entries may be shown at the Fresno State African American Recruitment Conference on Saturday, November 20, 2010 and other Fresno State events.
• California State University, Fresno reserves the right to amend the above rules at any time.

For Entry Forms, Participant Release Forms, or information please email Tanya Crabb at tcrabb@csufresno.edu.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Hat and Tie Extravaganza

The Iota Omicron Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is proud to present its first Hat and Tie Extravaganza.

Date: Saturday, October 9, 2010
Time: 6:00pm until midnight.
Dinner will be served at 7:00pm.
Place: Radisson Hotel Ballroom in Fresno, California.

Tickets for this semi-formal event $50 each and can be purchased through myticketportal.com.

For more information about the event, please contact Nicole Broomfield at 559-696- 8509 or at 1972AKA@gmail.com.

The Iota Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. was established in Fresno in 1972 and is recognized around the region for giving back to its community through its many service projects. Previous events have helped young women in the Fresno area purchase textbooks and pay fees for college. Proceeds from the Extravaganza will benefit the Chapter’s scholarship program for young women who are graduating high school seniors or are currently enrolled in a full-time college/university program.

The ballroom will be filled with a colorful audience of men and women wearing hats and ties. There will also be a parade of the winning hats and ties and a silent auction to further benefit the scholarship program. The program will conclude with dancing to music by a live DJ.
.
The Extravaganza is spearheaded by Chapter President Centhy Hansford and Event Chairman Nicole Broomfield. This event will help continue the Sorority’s legacy of “Service to All Mankind.”

Founded in 1908, on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C., Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) is the oldest and first Greek-lettered organization established by African-American college-educated women. AKA's membership is comprised of 260,000 distinguished women in graduate and undergraduate chapters in the United States and abroad who boast excellent academic records, proven leadership skills, and involvement in the global community through advocacy and service. Attorney Carolyn House Stewart is the 28th International President and will serve from 2010-2014. Her administration' s theme is “Global Leadership Through Timeless Service.” For more information, log on to www.aka1908. com. Dr. LaVern S. Tarkington is the 23rd Far Western Regional Director. The Far Western Region consists of Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Utah. For more information on the Far Western Region, log on to www.akafarwest. com.
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29th Annual Fresno State African American Recruitment Conference: "Fresno State's Got Talent"

It is that time of the year again! You and your students are cordially invited to the 29th Annual African American High School Recruitment Conference.

In honor of California State University, Fresno’s Centennial Anniversary, this year we will be hosting a "Hollywood" themed conference and student video contest. The theme of this year’s African American High School Student Recruitment Conference is “Fresno State’s Got Talent." It’s a FREE all day event with workshops, lunch and guest speakers.

The conference takes place at California State University Fresno's Satellite Student Union on Saturday, November 20, 2010 from 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM. Check-in is from 9:00 a.m. - 9:50 a.m.

To register go to: http://2010hsaarc.eventbrite.com

The Deadline for registration is November 6, 2010.

Below are a list of workshops being offered.

The A-G Team
o It’s never too early to start preparing for college. Sometimes the toughest part of preparing for college is just figuring out where to start. This workshop is designed to help students develop a clearer understanding how to prepare for college. We will give you the tools to start planning for college by:

• Explaining the different college types and requirements
• Identifying the A-G/college admissions requirements (course requirements for the University of California and California State University systems)
• Explaining the difference between high school requirements and A-G/college requirements
• Identifying the courses you need to take to be eligible for college.

America’s Next Top Graduate
o Want to be on top? Do you have what it takes to graduate from college? If you have not attended college before, you may not be aware of the differences between the high school and college environments. The transition from high school to college can be a difficult one. This workshop can help you navigate the transition from high school to college. Are you up to the challenge?

So You Think You Can Transfer?
o Do you want to transfer from a 2 year college to a four year college but are unsure how to make the transition? Do you need help figuring out which classes to take? Do you need information on how to maximize your time at a community college? Don’t get left behind. Attend this workshop to have all your transfer questions answered by an expert.

The Secret Life of the African American College Student
o Have you ever wondered what college is really like? Our panel of students is ready to share details about their college experience with you. They will tell you the good, the bad, and the ugly of college life. Come and hear Fresno State’s African American students share what they have learned.

Wipeout: How to Enjoy College without Wrecking Your Grades
o Being a good student doesn't have to mean the death of your social life. It's possible to earn good grades while marinating a healthy social life. In the workshops you will learn tips for keeping a balance between school and fun.

FlashForward: Planning Your College Future
o Are you trying to figure out which major to choose? Or which major offers the best jobs? Do you know which major best suits your career goal? Or are you totally clueless about what major is the best fit for you? Figuring out the type of degree you’ll need for your career of interest often includes choosing a major. For some careers, choosing a major that prepares you for your future career is simple. For others, the connection between the career and major is not so clear. This workshop is designed to help you figure out which majors are in line with your career choices.

The Apprentice: Networking Your Way to Success
o Can socializing lead to success? It can if you know how to network. Networking is about making connections and building relationships. This workshop is designed to help you learn how to network with peers and professionals. The ability to connect with people is essential to success in any business. Networking presents opportunities to interact with others on a personal level and to develop profitable relationships. This skill is critical for anyone who wants to be successful in their chosen career.

True Beauty: Being Beautiful in America
o What is the definition of beauty? According to the New York University Child Study Center girls' self-esteem peaks when they are about 9 years old, then takes a nosedive. This interactive workshop facilitates the discussion about girls self esteem, body image, and peer and social pressures around appearance. This workshop provides attendees with the tools for building self confidence, creating healthy relationships, and celebrating their own uniqueness.

Survivor: Boys and Men of Color in America
o Ronald B. Mincy, professor of social work at Columbia University and editor of "Black Males Left Behind” said it best when he stated "There's something very different happening with young black men, and it's something we can no longer ignore.” The research surrounding Black men and boys seems to support that statement. Research shows:

• Nationally, only about two-thirds of all students who enter 9th grade graduate with regular high school diplomas four years later. For minority males, these figures are far lower. In 2001, on average, 72% of female students, but only 64% of male students graduated. African American students had a graduation rate of 50%, the lowest of racial and ethnic groups identified.
• Three-quarters of state prison inmates are high school dropouts
• Of all African American male dropouts in their early 30s, 52% have been imprisoned.

o This workshop talks about the challenges facing African American males and the ways to overcome them.

CSI Fresno State: Financial Aid Edition
o Does it feel like you need a CSI unit to figure out how to apply for financial aid? For most people applying for financial aid can be complicated and confusing. This workshop will discuss the different types of financial aid and ways to navigate the financial aid system. By learning how to effectively navigate the system you can avoid delays in getting the money you need. Join us and get clued in.

Welcome Black!

Everyone is invited to join the Black Faculty and Staff Association, the Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce, and Black Students United for the annual reception to welcome new and returning students, faculty, and staff.

Come out, have good time, and support student retention by helping to create a sense of belonging!


Date: Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Time: 5 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
(Program starts at 5:30 p.m.)
Place: Fresno State Smittcamp Alumni House

Food (donated by FMBCC), entertainment, fun activities, community resources.
For more information call The Center for Women and Culture at 278-6946.

Fresno State African American Events

AFRICAN PEOPLES’ HISTORY MONTH
The whole month of February is dedicated to the commemoration of African American people. Activities in this month are designed to educate and celebrate the rich African culture. The month includes various activities such as forums, movie nights, Hip Hop shows, step shows, Gospel celebrations and much, much more.

AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDENT RECRUITMENT CONFERENCES (AASRC)
Two conferences held every year to motivate students to further their education after high school.

The conferences provide a full day of activities and exciting entertainment for middle school and high school students. Lunch is provided for all registered attendees.

The focuses of the conferences are:

• Encourage students to pursue postsecondary education
• Motivate participants to begin the process of setting educational goals
• Allow students to explore how an education provides tools for the future
• Meet and interact with Fresno State students and faculty
• Provide exposure to California State University, Fresno

High School Conference: November
Middle School Conference: February

For more information contact Tanya Crabb at tcrabb@csufresno.edu

AFRICAN AMERICAN RECOGNITION CEREMONY
The African American Recognition Ceremony conducted annually for graduating African American Students carries with it a proud heritage spanning more than 20 years. The first event, hosted in 1984, set the tone for this prestigious event that is attended by over 1,800 each year. This “rite of passage” has become a powerful celebration of achievements by African American students and their families. It also serves as an inspirational tool for students still laboring toward fulfilling their degree requirements. Often the Recognition Ceremony Committee is approached by continuing and potential students who share their excitement about one day being included in this celebration. This annual event is hosted immediately following regular commencement.

For more information contact Tawanda Kitchen at tbowers@csufresno.edu