MEDIA RELEASE

CSUN’s National Center on Deafness Hosts First Annual 5K Walk

(NORTHRIDGE, Calif., March 3, 2008) — Officials with Cal State Northridge’s National Center on Deafness are calling all walkers, runners and rollers to join them in the first annual five kilometer "Run n’ Sign" event scheduled for Sunday, April 13.

The walk will raise funds to enhance current and future CSUN programs for students who are deaf and those students who hope to become involved as teachers, interpreters and service providers.

"The ‘Sign n’ Run’ event is to bring together diverse people to learn more about and celebrate our language, culture and community," said Roz Rosen, director of the campus’ National Center on Deafness (NCOD). "Everyone is welcome, ages zero to 100, including deaf, hard of hearing and hearing students, staff, faculty, families, alumni, signers and non-signers!"

Each participant will set a fundraiser goal with the average being $250. Prizes will be given to people earning the most.

The National Center on Deafness has placed California State University, Northridge at the forefront nationally and internationally in the provision of services to people who are deaf and have other disabilities. Specifically, NCOD has been honored for service to the campus and community, as well as for its specialized projects and materials used across the nation.

CSUN’s population of deaf and hard-of-hearing students is one of the largest at any mainstream university in the United States. The university was among the first to offer comprehensive services to mainstream these students, beginning 40 years ago.

For more information, visit the NCOD Web site at www.csun.edu/ncod.