The positive reception and high attendance attested to the urgency and relevance of the series. In the past, the Hmong community had felt disarray, confusion, and powerlessness during hard times. The series then served as a neutral place for discussion and dialogue for a better understanding of relevant issues where different perspectives can contribute to the well-being of the students and the community.
Developed by Cheryl Chan, former director of the American English Institute (AEI) at Fresno State, and Dr. Jaydene Elvin, assistant professor of Linguistics, the “Act Like a Teacher” method goes beyond the theory and coaches students by using theater and acting techniques.
“It’s an amazing learning experience,” said Mel Johnson. “The difference between just coming up with a design for a class and actually designing for a show is huge.
Anyone familiar with Fresno State will recognize the Peace Garden, just north of the Henry Madden Library, as one of the most beautiful and serene places on campus. The statues begin with the larger than life head of Gandhi who gazes east at the depictions of those who have followed his legacy. With the Peace Garden’s location near the center of campus life, these ideals of civil rights and non-violence lie at the heart of Fresno State.
They seem a bit timid at first — not something you would expect from a group of Communication students — but the topic is not something which is often talked about openly. As the conversation continues, the stories get a bit more personal.
These educators are dedicated teachers with a range of classroom experiences — from graduate teaching associate positions at Fresno State, to area high schools and community colleges — and they represent the latest standouts among our English and Creative Writing graduate program alumni who’ve decided to keep their higher-ed teaching work at home in the Central Valley.
This fall semester, graphic design alumna Jessie Irwin returns to Fresno State as a lecturer to teach “History of Graphic Design” while also working as the Creative Director at Jeffrey Scott Agency (JSA) in downtown Fresno.
It was 1952 when an eight-year-old Jim Cardella, accompanied by his parents, left his home in Firebaugh to board the “California Zephyr” train in Oakland and begin an epic journey that took him nearly halfway around the world.
After nearly sweeping the local American Advertising Awards (ADDY) awards, the top award winners moved on to the regional level where the accolades continued. Graphic Design student Belinda Houngsombath earned two gold medals in the regional ADDYs and will now move to compete at the national level.
