CSUF President Fram Virjee offered welcoming remarks at the recent 27th annual Black Chamber of Orange County Banquet, highlighting the work of Cal State Fullerton in preparing students to power the workforce in Orange County, the state and beyond.
“We always say ‘Titans Reach Higher,’ and that’s exactly what we — and the Black Chamber — do. We reach out to students and communities. We collaborate. And that starts at the top with people like Bobby McDonald, executive director of the chamber and a proud Titan.”
Virjee pointed out that among the many alumni in attendance were two members of Congress: Lou Correa ’80 (B.A. economics) and Ed Royce ’77 (B.A. business administration).
“The success of our alumni and students demonstrate that Cal State Fullerton is the economic engine, the preeminent path to upward mobility and the lifeblood of the workforce in Orange County,” Virjee said. He also noted that both Cal State Fullerton and the Black Chamber of Orange County are active and willing partners in shaping and transforming the lives of students and communities.
Among the 15 members of the CSUF contingent attending the chamber function were Tami Bui, associate vice president for government and community relations; Berenecea J. Eanes, vice president for student affairs; Sheryl Fontaine, dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences; and Mrs. Julie Virjee and President Fram Virjee.
Virjee also noted that Cal State Fullerton has a long history of working closely with the Black Chamber of Orange County.
“I appreciate the ongoing support that Cal State Fullerton, my alma mater, has offered to the Black Chamber of Orange County. Our goals of providing education and community support are closely aligned,” said McDonald ’75 (B.S. physical education). “Cal State Fullerton offers a number of wonderful programs and resources for African American students: The Male Success Initiative to support undergraduate men of color, the African American Resource Center and the African American Studies Department, to name a few. Working together we open up possibilities to students, ensuring a better future for them and for our community. It’s true: Titans Reach Higher!”