College of Humanities Newsletter Volume 10, Issue 2

Elizabeth A. Say, Ph.D.
CSUN Alum 1981

I write this message for the Newsletter on Inauguration Day, January 20. The significance of this day reminds me of our responsibility-as teachers and students-to invest our knowledge and talents in making our society a more humane and compassionate one. Stories in this issue will give you hope in the future to which CSUN contributes. You will read about our commitment to feed the poor, to protect the weak, to champion diversity, and to educate for a better future. You will also be reminded of the contributions of those we have lost-who shared our values and our mission to "Act as responsible global citizens committed to principles of freedom, equality, justice, and participatory democracy."

Submitted by Jackie Sayers

Early in fall 2016, CSU N's Women's Research & Resource Center opened a food pantry, accessible to all who present a valid CSUN student ID. Students concerned about privacy are assured that all requests and receipt of assistance will remain anonymous. The food pantry was spearheaded by WRRC director Shira Brown and students Orion Block and Nancy Avelino. Aware that food insecurity is an invisible challenge many CSUN students face, they entered a project planning phase one year ago. This was before the California State University released a study this June, commissioned by Chancellor Timothy P. White, finding that 25% of students across the 23-campus system struggle with food insecurity, while 10% report that they are homeless. With the extent of the crisis starkly revealed, the WRRC dedicated all available resources in summer 2016 to space planning and brainstorming ideas about how and where to solicit support and donations of goods.

The WRRC Food Pantry, located within the center, provides non-perishable food and personal hygiene products. Food and products are accessed by students from across campus and are in constant need. Donations have been received so far from the San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission, the West Hills Neighborhood Council, CSUN Housing, and CSUN faculty, staff, and students.

Support and donations of food and toiletries are always gladly accepted. Departments and classes interested in organizing donation drives for the pantry are welcome and will receive full support from WRRC staff. Please contact Shira Brown at or (818)-677-2780.

On behalf of WRRC staff and CSUN students in need, thank you for your support!