Laverne Cox at CSU Fullerton

At the beginning of the 2014-2015 school year, student leaders of ASI Executive Senate began discussions to bring a speaker to campus. After much deliberation, the Emmy-nominated actress and LGBT advocate, Laverne Cox, was selected with the belief that students would be engaged and inspired by what she had to say.

A marketing campaign began and tickets were release roughly a month before the event was to take place. The Titan Student Union Information Desk distributed 1,500 tickets among students (free) and guests ($10).

The turnout and enthusiasm shown by students the day of the event was incredible! The line to get in Titan Gym began forming an hour before the event was to start and went all the way down the street. Laverne Cox delivered an empowering speech that touched on her own experiences as a transgender woman and the importance of advocating for justice and equality, especially for marginalized groups. Laverne received a standing ovation from the audience following her speech, and lead into a 20 minute question and answer session.

Following her speech, around 45 individuals had the opportunity to meet the Orange is the New Black star privately. This opportunity was available to students and community members selected through a "meet & greet" application that began a week prior. The application question was simple: "In 350 words or less, please explain why you want to meet Laverne Cox and what the opportunity would mean to you."

Pictured above: Members of ASI Executive Senate (Joseph Valencia, Vanessa Hugon, Kristyn Grimes).

Community Service ICC is extremely grateful for being able to contribute to such an incredible event. We look forward to future collaborations with Executive Senate and its student leaders.

Photo Credits: Tar Rakhra