Use this search box to find articles that have run in our newspapers over the last several years.

Feminist, Hollywood heavyweight visit Westfield State

Date: 3/23/2010

March 24, 2010.

By Katelyn Gendron

Reminder Assistant Editor



WESTFIELD -- From a feminist icon to a Hollywood heavyweight, the Westfield State College (WSC) Foundation's Speaker Series will close with a bang this spring.

Gloria Steinem, feminist leader, political activist and founder of New York Magazine, will appear at the next event on March 31, followed by actor, director and human rights activist Danny Glover on April 2.

"As a leader in the fight for equal rights and opportunity, Gloria Steinem is an international icon," Evan Dobelle, president of WSC, said. "Her influence in raising the social and economic power of women has inspired greatly needed change in the workplace and advancements of rights for all."

Steinem is best known as a political leader and voice of the women's rights movement in the 1960s and '70s.

She's also known for her work in the field of investigative journalism -- more specifically her work on how the women of Playboy were mistreated during their employment. Her expose was later made into the 1985 film "A Bunny's Tale," starring Kirstie Alley.

While Glover is most known for his work as Detective Roger Murtaugh in the four "Lethal Weapon" movies with his co-star Mel Gibson, he will touch on all facets of his career, in front of and behind the camera.

"There are many dimensions to Danny Glover beyond his success as an actor," Dobelle said. "He also is an internationally recognized advocate for social justice. The college is proud to offer the opportunity for area residents to meet Danny Glover and hear his message."

In addition to his numerous film and television credits, Glover is a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Development Program; chair of the TransAfrica Forum; recipient of an Annual Creativity in Electronics Award and more than one National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Image Awards.

Steinem will appear at WSC on March 31 in the Woodward Center at 7 p.m. This event is free and open to students and the public.

Tickets for "A Night with Danny Glover" are $25 or $50 for those who choose to attend the accompanying reception. All proceeds from the evening will be donated to the WSC Future Teachers Scholarship Fund.

Glover will be at WSC on April 2 at 6:30 p.m. for the reception at Scanlon Banquet Hall, followed by his appearance for a question and answer session at 8 p.m. in the Dever Auditorium.

For additional information or to purchase tickets, log onto their Web site, www.westfieldalumni.org, or call 572-8356.