Fresno State Parents Association celebrates decade of support

The Parents Association at California State University, Fresno observes its 10th anniversary with contributions for several projects, including helping families around the world to watch their children at May’s International Student Commencement Celebration.

The association’s other 2008-09 allocations support an information telescreen in the Office of Advising Services, laptop computers for Dog Days orientation leaders, new tutoring resources for the Learning Center and a holiday dinner for students who are Renaissance Scholars.

Each year since its launch in 1988, the Parents Association directors have designated funds for university programs such as Services for Students with Disabilities, Alcohol Education and Safety, Tutorial Services and Community Service. The association also developed a fund to assist students who suffer catastrophic loses.

More than 1,500 families have joined the organization. Members’ fundraising efforts have enjoyed the partnership of many nonmembers, said Paul DeRuosi, the staff liaison for the Parents Association. To date, about $100,000 has been raised by the group, DeRuosi said.

DeRuosi and a group of parents established the group. Its purpose is to promote family activities; give parents a voice at the university on issues of importance to them and their students; and to encourage parent to support Fresno State financially to enhance student programs.

“The impact these parents have made benefits not just their own children’s pursuit of higher education, but many other students as well,” DeRuosi said. “This parent support has made a significant difference in our ability to serve and has made the organization a true success we will enjoy for years to come.”

For more information, call: 559.278.5052.