hey this is a little old, but its pretty good PR. so I thought that was good news!
Ethnic diversity a key part of CSUS campus life
Tuesday, February 17, 2004
By Michael Cipponeri - Turlock Journal
With the start of the 2004 spring semester at California State University, Stanislaus comes a new set of challenges for its more than 8,000 students, both academic and social.
One of the many social pressures students must face - both first time students and older re-entry students - is the increasing diversity found in every level of society throughout the United States.
Diversity is one of the prime foci of the administration at CSU Stanislaus, and students seem to approve, saying that diversity is important in all aspects of society.
“Diversity is extremely important,” said Danielle Munoz, a CSU Stanislaus senior and a member of the Phi Sigma Sigma sorority. “It opens people’s eyes to newer, greater possibilities and points of view.”
Munoz said that she has seen the fruits of diversity first hand in her sorority, which she says incorporates every ethnicity.
“We are very inclusive. We have people of every ethnic background, from Assyrians to Hispanics and Africans, to Asians and Caucasians,” she said.
Bernardo Benevides and Edgar Ramirez said they felt similarly to Munoz.
“It’s important to learn how to cope with other cultures,” said Benevides.
“It gives you an idea of what is out there,” added Ramirez.
Ron Rivera said that having diversity, a broad representation of cultures, ethnicities and backgrounds, is the first step in harmony between different groups of people.
“I think it is very important to have diversity in society. People can learn from one another , their backgrounds and culture, and develop an understanding and respect for one another,” said he said.
Lee Renner, director of first year programs and counseling, felt that the administration of CSU Stanislaus and of President Marvalene Hughes in particular, has done a tremendous job of fostering the diversity on-campus.
“When I first came here, it was similar to many high schools, with different groups generally staying to themselves,” he said. “Now, I see a lot more of a blending of groups, a mixing of different people and blurring of boundaries.”
Renner feels that diversity creates a more open and caring society, bringing people closer together for the common good.
“It is just as important to be able to understand as it is to be understood,” he said.
Reporter Michael Cipponeri can be reached at 634-9141 or
mikec@turlockjournal.com
http://www.turlockjournal.com/news/newsview.asp?c=95817
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