The Columbia College Foundation will host an enlightening look at the changes and challenges of today’s Native American experience Thursday, November 16.  Speakers include author and ethnic studies professor Dr. Melissa Moreno of Woodland Community College, Carlos Geisdorff (Me-Wuk), Cultural Coordinator of the Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk, and Columbia College Counselor Stephanie Beaver (Hupa) who will moderate. The event, held during National Native American Heritage Month, will be held at the Dogwood Forum at Columbia College and is free to the public. Doors will open at 6pm and the evening’s program will run from 6:30-8pm.

The November 16 program continues a community lecture series hosted by the Columbia College Foundation in cooperation with college faculty and regional partners.  The November 16 lecture is presented with community partners Chicken Ranch Rancheria and Chicken Ranch Casino, and the Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians and Black Oak Casino Resort.

Beaver is the event organizer, and noted that perspectives of Native California people are important to invite and showcase, especially in a college setting. “This will give a missing voice and perspective in a larger public system,” Beaver said. “It’s great for natives and non-natives alike – it will help everyone gain formal academic knowledge and cultural insight they may not have had access to. It’s great for anyone who works with native people or has a desire to understand native history and present experiences. Who couldn’t benefit from that?”

“This is a chance to hear from and learn more about a vital part of our local culture, and to help bring light to their story and the history of California,” said Colette Such, Columbia College Foundation President. “The Foundation is pleased to help bring these speakers together for an enlightening and educational evening.”

For more information, visit http://www.gocolumbia.edu or call (209) 588-5065.

The Columbia College Foundation is a community nonprofit established in 1972 to promote quality higher education that enriches the academic, economic, and cultural life of our community. Our mission is to promote student success by providing community resources that support and expand educational opportunities for Columbia College’s students. Learn more at www.gocolumbia.edu/foundation or call (209) 588-5055.

Columbia College is pleased to announce the addition of a new practice wall to enhance its tennis courts.  The wall measures twelve by eighty feet, and can accommodate multiple players at one time.

Practice walls are recognized as important additions to everyday practice routines for both beginners and those developing their game. The project was developed under the leadership of Jeff Fitzwater, a Columbia College counselor and tennis enthusiast.  Funding was provided by the Columbia College Foundation and contributions made by the local tennis community. The facility is open to the public on a first-come, space-available basis.

The Columbia College Library has become the hosting site for the Tuolumne Veterans’ History Project, which includes the approved personal histories of World War II veterans who were interviewed for the project. The material was formerly housed on the Memoir Center website.  For more information, please visit http://www.gocolumbia.edu/library/stories/index.php