May 13, 2008

Broadcast journalist and Fresno State alumna Jan Yanehiro is willing to go great lengths for a good story: She’s skydived with the Army’s Golden Knights and ventured up a frozen waterfall. She also helped pioneer the TV-magazine format as co-host of “Evening Magazine.

On Oct. 2, Yanehiro will share her experiences, along with entrepreneur Michealene Cristini Risley, as part of the University Lecture Series at 7:30 p.m. in the Satellite Student Union, 2485 E. San Ramon Ave.

Yanehiro and Risley, along with two other co-authors, wrote about their life experiences in the book “This is Not the Life I Ordered: 50 Ways to Keep Your Head Above Water.” The four women’s therapeutic kitchen table conversations became a collection of lessons, stories and wisdom.

Yanehiro, a 1970 Fresno State graduate, hosts “Everyday Angels” on Comcast Cable TV, and she is executive producer of Pacific Fusion TV. Risley STET entrepreneurial efforts include developing a line of maternity wear with Adidas, and producing, directing and funding the award-winning short film “Flashcards,” now being distributed by American Public Television.

The University Lecture Series is sponsored by the Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, with additional support provided by Coke and James Hallowell, the University Student Union, the Associated Students, Piccadilly Inn Hotels and KJWL-FM.

Advance tickets are available at the University Student Union Information desk. Tickets are $10 general admission; $6 Fresno State faculty, staff, Alumni Association members and seniors; and $2 Fresno State and University High School students. Prices on the day of the event increase by $2 for general admission, faculty, staff and Alumni Association members.

For more information or tickets, call 559.278.2431.