News

What: Portland State University and the Graduate School of Education (GSE) celebrate 50 years of educating teachers at a luncheon themed “Critical Challenges for Today's Educators.” The celebration event will feature keynote speaker Vicki Phillips, superintendent of Portland Public Schools, who will identify the challenges facing educators today and share her vision for meeting the diverse needs of all students. Phillips will also highlight the importance of partnerships between the GSE and Oregon's school districts in addressing the challenges and opportunities of our region and state.

When: Wednesday, April 19, 2006, Noon-1:30 p.m.

Where: Portland State’s Smith Memorial Student Union, 3rd floor ballroom, 1825 SW Broadway.

Cost: Open to the public, the cost for the luncheon is $65 for general seating and $125 for premium seating. All proceeds provide scholarship support for the Graduate School of Education.

Contact: For information and tickets, contact Sandy Wiscarson, 503-725-4789, or email wiscars@pdx.edu. Media interested in attending the luncheon should contact Erin Malecha Arias, Office of Marketing and Communications, 503-725-8794.

Background: The Graduate School of Education (GSE) is Oregon’s largest and most comprehensive school of education with 980 students currently enrolled. The GSE prepares professionals to be leaders in a variety of settings: public schools, libraries, counseling clinics, social service agencies, institutions of higher education, and adult education programs.

In 1956, Portland State College (now University) awarded its first bachelor’s degrees to 72 students, of which 43 received education degrees.

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For Immediate Release #06-050