Published by Communications and Public Affairs (519) 824-4120, Ext. 56982 or 53338
News Release
November 17, 1999
U of G plans range of events to mark AIDS awareness week
The University of Guelph's Office of Student Affairs and the Central Student Association (CSA) are planning several events to mark National AIDS Awareness Week Nov. 22-Dec. 1.
A panel discussion will be held Tuesday, Nov. 23, at 7 p.m. in MacDonald Hall, Room 149. The panel will feature two guests -- one living with HIV/AIDS, and one affected by the disease – along with representatives from Guelph-Wellington Public Health and the AIDS Committee of Guelph and Wellington County. The discussion will be preceded by a skit presented by U of G's Wellness Education Troupe (WET).
Thursday, Nov. 25, there will be a casino and auction in the University Centre's Peter Clark Hall at 7 p.m. Tickets are $2. Local businesses have contributed prizes, which will be auctioned at the end of the evening. Proceeds will benefit the AIDS Committee of Guelph and Wellington County, the Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research and the United Way.
Both events are open to the public.
"It is important for students to have an opportunity to enhance their knowledge about this disease and these educational events we are planning will help to accomplish that goal," said Leanna Falkiner, CSA Student Life Commissioner. It is estimated that 40,000-50,000 Canadians are affected with HIV/AIDS.
"With the proceeds being shared between research facilities and community support services, we can ensure that people coping with the disease receive support as well as encouraging the development of a cure," Falkiner said.
Added Brenda Whiteside, Acting Associate Vice-President (Student Affairs): "Student Affairs is pleased to be working with the CSA to help educate the campus about AIDS and its consequences, and to raise funds to support people with the disease as well as for research for a cure."
For more information, contact Brenda Whiteside at 519-824-4120, Ext. 3868 or Leanna Falkiner at Ext. 6743. Media questions to Communications and Public Affairs at 519-824-4120, Ext. 6982.
