VANCOUVER, Wash. – Paying it forward is the idea behind the theme for Washington State University Vancouver’s 2011 Women of Distinction program—Empowering Young Women. The event will recognize women who in turn empower young women in our community at 6 p.m. March 31 in the Firstenburg Student Commons.
The theme will be exemplified by keynote speaker Nichole Maher, executive director of the Native American Youth and Family Center. Under her leadership, NAYA works to enrich the lives of native youth and families through education, community involvement and culturally specific programming. For more than 30 years, NAYA has provided educational services, cultural arts programming, and direct support to reduce poverty to the Portland metropolitan area’s American Indian and Alaska Native community.
One of the ways NAYA empowers young women is by supporting and encouraging education. NAYA is very proud of its school—the NAYA Early College Academy. Established in 2008, the school is committed to creating a positive education emphasizing student empowerment, academic excellence and the integrity of core American Indian and Alaska Native values. The Academy offers a blended high school and postsecondary curriculum for 9th - 12th graders aged 14 to 20. Students attending the academy have the unique opportunity to earn a high school diploma and can earn college credit.
NAYA also provides Middle School Advocates who work closely with youth to help them complete their academic programs and/or to return to school. Advocates help students access available resources and navigate the educational system.
The purpose of Washington State University Vancouver’s annual event is to provide a venue for the celebration of Women’s History Month, observed each year in March, and to recognize women who have inspired, mentored and empowered others.
The capstone of the evening will be the presentation of the Distinguished Woman of the Year award. The annual award honors women who have made a difference in the lives of others and will be bestowed upon one Â鶹´«Ã½ student and one non-student. Award recipients are selected by a committee after review of nominations.
Women of Distinction is a free event and is open to students, staff, faculty and community members. Reservations are recommended. RSVP by March 29 to . A pass for free parking will be provided upon making reservations. For information about Women of Distinction, please call 360-546-9530.
Â鶹´«Ã½ is located at 14204 N.E. Salmon Creek Ave east of the 134th Street exit from either I-5 or I-205.
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CONTACT:
- Karin Zimmer, Office of Student Involvement, 360-546-9530, karin.zimmer@vancouver.wsu.edu
- Brenda Alling, Office of Marketing and Communications, 360-546-9601, brenda_alling@vancouver.wsu.edu