(PHOENIX, Ariz., April 4, 2005) -- High school and college students from across the state will gather at Phoenix College to participate in Phoenix College MEChA's Statewide Student Success Conference on Friday, April 15.

This year's conference, entitled "Education: Opening Doors of Opportunity" is designed to educate students about the importance of post secondary education, Chicana/Chicano issues, diversity, culture, identity and the history and structure of Movimiento Estudiantil Chicanos de Aztlan (MEChA).

The conference also allows students to hear and learn from legislators, community leaders, and college faculty and staff during workshops throughout the day. Workshop presentations will focus on preparation for college, financial aid, opportunities and success in education, community involvement, art, culture and history.

This year's keynote speaker for the conference is Dr. Loui Olivas, Vice President of Academic Affairs at Arizona State University and professor in the W.P. Carey School of Business.

"Dr. Olivas will speak on the demographic reality that as Latino students become the majority, our society's economic and social well-being will depend on their educational success," said Dr. Pete Dimas, Phoenix College Liberal Arts instructor and MEChA adviser.

Phoenix College MEChA serves as a recruitment, retention and support group for Chicano/Hispanic/Latino students. MEChA's goal is to promote an awareness and understanding of the Hispanic/Latino culture in the school and community and to link higher education with the community's issues.

For more information about Phoenix College MEChA or the statewide conference, please call (602) 285-7181. The cost of admission is: $5 for high school students; $7 for college students; and $8 for teachers and advisors. All admissions include lunch, resource material, and entertainment. To pre-register, fill out the online form.

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