Community Leadership Recognized

County’s Black Chamber of Commerce to Honor University

August 6, 2007

By Pam McLaren

Cal State Fullerton is among the honorees to be feted by the Black Chamber of Commerce of Orange County during its 16th annual Awards Banquet Aug. 25 at the Anaheim Convention Center.

The university is being recognized for 50 years of providing a quality education to the region’s future leadership, as well as serving the community through its many programs and activities.

“This year’s event is focusing on education,” noted Chamber President and CSUF alumnus Bobby McDonald (B.S. physical education ’75). “Specifically on reading, writing and the recording of our history.”

Cal State Fullerton is being honored with the chamber’s Community Leadership Award, as is the city of Anaheim, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary. The chamber’s Distinguished Service Award will be presented to California State Librarian Susan Hildreth and the Community Service Award to the California Librarians Black Caucus.

“Our mission,” said McDonald, “is to advocate and promote black business and economic development within the public and private sectors, resulting in a sound economic base that supports the survival and self-determination of the African-American community.

“And a big part of economic development is having a well-educated workforce. That’s why education is so vital. And that’s why we chose to recognize these leaders in the community.”

Mistress of ceremonies will be Vikki Vargas, KNBC-TV channel 4 Orange County bureau chief and Titan alumna (B.A. communications ’81). As part of the promotion of education and history, the chamber has asked guests to bring a book on black history to the event. Books will be donated to public libraries in the county.

For more information about the festivities, go to www.ocblackchamber.com or call 714-547-2646.