(PHOENIX, Ariz., March 24, 2003) – High school and college students from across the state will gather at Phoenix College to participate in the annual M.E.Ch.A. Statewide Student Success Conference on Friday, April 16. The conference is designed to educate students about the importance of post secondary education, Chicana/o issues, diversity, culture, identity and the history and structure of (Movimiento Estudiantil Chicanos de Aztlan) M.E.Ch.A.

Phoenix College M.E.Ch.A. serves as a recruitment, retention and support group for Latino students. M.E.Ch.A.’s goal is to promote an awareness and understanding of the Latino culture in relationships to the total school and community.

The conference also allows students to hear and learn from leaders within the community, Phoenix College alumni, current students, faculty and staff. This year’s keynote speaker is Daniel Ortega, Attorney at Law.

This year’s conference is sponsored by the Phoenix College President’s Office, Phoenix College International Student Center and Southwest Student Services Corporation (SSSC).

"Phoenix College M.E.Ch.A. would like to take this opportunity to extend an invitation to the students of the high schools in the state of Arizona," said Loida Gutiérrez, Phoenix College Spanish instructor and club co-advisor. "We are inviting those students who are interested in learning more about Phoenix College and the importance of higher education in the Latino community."

For more information about PC M.E.Ch.A., please call 602-285-7722 or 602-285-7853. The cost of admission is $5 for high school students and $8 for college students.

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