National College Week
focuses on high quality, low cost

by Tom Uribes

California State University, Fresno provides a quality education at one of the most affordable rates in the nation.

That was the message that Provost J. Michael Ortiz drove home during National College Week Nov. 15-19.

Sponsored nationwide by the U.S. Department of Education, National College Week was used by universities and colleges across the country to emphasize that Americans can achieve their dream of a college education with the proper academic preparation and informed financial planning.

Ortiz delivered his message first on Monday, Nov. 15, during a special reception for about 150 school children from the Accelerated Learning Academy established by the Clovis Unified School District. The reception in the Residence Dining Hall featured a demonstration of the popular Science Mania program featuring

Dr. David Frank, Fresno State chemistry professor. The academy is a symbol of a commitment by Fresno State and Clovis Unified to foster high standards, said Ortiz.

Currently in its first year, the program involves about 100 third, fourth and fifth graders from the school district who performed well - scoring above the 70th percentile - on the Stanford 9 achievement tests, but whose economic background could impede their chances of attending college.

"The academy prepares them academically and spurs their interest in succeeding in school so they set pursuit of a college degree as a goal," Ortiz said.

Every summer, the students will attend a six-week enrichment program and throughout the year are monitored and assisted until they graduate from high school, when they are automatically admitted to Fresno State. A new group of third graders will be added each year.

On Nov. 18, Ortiz traveled to Parlier High School where, in a speech to several joint classes, he delivered a personal appeal to set high academic standards while dispelling the notion that college is unattainably expensive.

"Like many rural high schools in our service area, Parlier students are largely Hispanic, lower income and tend to feel college is out of their reach," said Ortiz, who hopes his visit will have a positive role model impact.

"[They need to know] they can attend college in their own backyard, save money and receive a great education."

Other university events occurring during National College Week included University Open House on Saturday, Nov. 13, and Education Recognition Day on Sat., Nov. 20, when employees of area schools were guests at the Bulldogs' football season finale against San Jose State University.