African American High School Students Gather at Colorado State’s Black Issues Forum

Note to Editors: Reporters are welcome to cover the sessions of the Black Issues Forum. For more information or to schedule interviews with participants, contact Bobby A. Browning, assistant director of Admissions at (970) 213-4032.

Dozens of African American high-school seniors will come together to research issues pertinent to the African-American community during the 15th annual Black Issues Forum at Colorado State University June 17-21.

The program brings together about 40 students from California, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, New Mexico, Texas and Colorado.

The session involves four days of research and discussion that culminate in a formal forum where students present their findings. The program format also helps students strengthen their skills in public speaking, teamwork and leadership.

Students will choose to study one of four topics pertinent to the African-American community:

– African Americans and Education: The Importance of a College Education;

– African Americans and Society: Influences in Music, Fashion and the American Lifestyle;

– African Americans and Politics: The Impact of Race/Gender on the 2008 Presidential Election; and

– African Americans and Health: Health Concerns Facing Young Adults.

Colorado State faculty, staff and graduate students will assist program participants in researching and presenting their topic areas.

"The purpose of the Black Issues Forum is to expose high school students to higher education and Colorado State University," said Bobby Browning, forum coordinator and assistant director of Admissions at Colorado State University. "After spending a few days living and conducting research on a university campus, this experience should make the pursuit of a college degree a less daunting experience for high school student participants."

For more information about the forum, contact Browning at (970) 213-4032.

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