By Ashley Foy
The LGBT Center’s Oct. 27 conference on social justice, which takes place on the CCSU campus and features special guest speaker Jessica Pettitt, has begun early registration for those interested in taking part in the activities.
Pettitt is well known as a diversity educator and has been nominated by the Campus Activities Magazine for Best Diversity Artist on two separate occasions. Pettitt offers very interactive and direct programs which are designed to educate the public on specific themes of diversity. Diverse LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) topics such as privilege, gender and identity will be discussed at the conference.
Though the topics discussed are serious and quite sensitive for many people, Pettitt promises a mix of effective and active steps toward life changes for her audience and a good time, as she has been doing stand-up comedy for the last few years and incorporated it into her program. She has traveled all around the country to speak to college students about LGBT-related topics and make a change in their lives.
Pettitt’s academic background includes a BA in sociology with secondary certification in social studies from Hendrix College and a Master of education administration from the University of South Carolina. In addition to her years of experience working in student affairs, Pettitt keeps her skills current by continuously gaining new certifications such as lead facilitator and certified mediator. In addition, she continues to regularly write articles for various publications and has been the recipient of several awards.
CSU students, faculty, staff or anyone with a valid CSU ID will only have to pay $5 for a ticket. All others will be offered an early bird special of $35 until Sept. 27. The regular price $55 will be charged from Sept 28 and on. You can register and pay for tickets at the CENtix Box Office located in the student center at CCSU or by calling (860) 832-1989.
For more information or questions on the event contact Kristin Van Ness (LGBT Center coordinator) at (860) 832-2091 or Sarah M. Rine (assistant director of Student Activities and Leadership Development) at (860) 832-1999 or visit the SALD website at http://www.ccsu.edu/sald/.
