061--November 29, 1999; FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Merrik Bush-Pirkle
phone: 415/338-1665
e-mail: pubcom@sfsu.edu
Senator Diane Feinstein to receive SFSU President's Medal
SAN FRANCISCO, November 29, 1999---At the final event celebrating its 100th anniversary, San Francisco State University will honor U.S. Senator Diane Feinstein with the prestigious President's Medal, the highest honor a California State University president can bestow upon an individual.
On Thursday, December 2, during the university's Centennial Gala at San Francisco City Hall, SFSU President Robert A. Corrigan will present Feinstein with the medal to honor her exemplary career, longstanding service to SFSU and continuing support of higher education.
"Those who are cynical about politicians and the value of a life spent in public service should look at Senator Dianne Feinstein," said Corrigan. "She reminds us of what a dedicated, principled person can achieve for the common good. She is an inspiration and a splendid model for those who are willing to work actively to make this a better, fairer nation."
Through Sen. Feinstein's efforts, SFSU was awarded $9.6 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to demolish Verducci Hall, an on-campus residence hall that suffered irreparable damage during the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake. The funds will also help the university move forward on a $48 million plan to build a state-of-the-art student residential/services complex that is scheduled to open in August 2000.
Sen. Feinstein will join SFSU alumna Annette Bening in receiving a President's Medal on Thursday. In addition, 10 living alumni will be recognized for their significant contributions to their fields. They include: Mayor Willie Brown, Jr.; State Senator John Burton; astronaut Yvonne Cagle; author Ernest Gaines; actor Danny Glover; businessman George Marcus; singer Johnny Mathis; poet Janice Mirikitani; music director Kent Nagano; and actor/comedian Ronnie Schell.
