FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE     

March 1, 2005                          

Contact: Shirley Melikian Armbruster

(559) 278-5292 or (559) 593-1815                   

Jean-Michel Cousteau Will Speak At University Lecture Series March 10

Jean-Michel Cousteau, famed oceanographer, explorer, filmmaker and son of the legendary Jacques Cousteau, will be featured Thursday, March 10, in the University Lecture Series at California State University, Fresno.

Cousteau will speak on “The Great Ocean Adventure” at 7:30 p.m. in the Satellite Student Union, 5280 N. Jackson Ave.

He also will participate in the dedication ceremony for the Science II building on March 11.

Cousteau has spent his life communicating to people of all nations and generations his love and concern for our planet. A trained architect, he founded the Ocean Futures Society in 1998 to carry on his father's work. The Ocean Futures Society is a non-profit marine conservation and education organization that serves as a “Voice for the Ocean.”

 A tireless spokesperson, Cousteau impresses an ethic of conservation, research and marine education, while realistically addressing the economic practicalities.

In 2002, he made history by becoming the first person to represent the environment in an Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games. His current effort will be to embark for "The Most Remote Islands on the Planet" in a new documentary, “Voyage to Kure,” for PBS.

 An impassioned spokesman and diplomat for the environment, he reaches out to the public through a variety of media. He has produced over 70 films that have earned him numerous Emmy, Peabody and Cable Ace Awards.

Advance tickets for the University Lecture Series are available at the University Student Union Information Booth (559-278-2078).  Advance prices are $10 general; $6 faculty/staff/alumni association, seniors and high school students; and $2 Fresno State and University High School students.

Tickets will be available at the door on a first-come, first-served basis from 6:30 to

7:30 p.m. Prices at the door are $12 general; $8 faculty/staff/alumni association, seniors and high school students; and $2 Fresno State and University High students.

The University Lecture Series is sponsored by the Office of the Provost with cooperation from the University Student Union, Associated Students, Inc., KJWL, KVPR, James and Coke Hallowell and Piccadilly Inn Hotels. The Cousteau lecture is also sponsored by the College of Science and Mathematics.

Parking will be relaxed in lots J, O & P beginning at 7 p.m. for the lecture. For more information see www.csufresno.edu/universitylecture.  

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