April 3, 2018
Joy Webb
Diane Guerrero, cast member of “Orange is the New Black” and immigration activist, is coming to UCCS.
Guerrero will discuss her acting career, issues revolving around DACA and the future of DACA recipients as part of UCCS’ Significant Speaker series on April 11 at 7 p.m. The event will be held in the Shockley-Zalabak Theater in the Ent Center for the Arts.
Hosted by the Office of Student Activities and Residence Life and Housing, Guerrero is the eighth significant speaker at UCCS. Past speakers include Gabby Douglas, Neil deGrasse Tyson and Bennet Omalu, according to Stephen Cucchiara, assistant director of student activities.
Guerrero was chosen by a student poll in the fall. Her topic of how deportation has impacted her and other immigrants residing in the U.S. is important for the current political climate, said Cucchiara.
“I think it is extremely important for students to stay up to date on what’s going on politically, socially in our country, and I think the topic that Diane is going to speak about
is a hot button topic, but she is going to provide insight that we may not all necessarily be aware of,” said Cucchiara.
Guerrero will give a 10- 15 minute keynote speech. Andrea Herrera, associate vice
chancellor for inclusion and academic affairs, will facilitate a Q&A inclduding scripted and student questions, said Cucchiara. A book signing will also follow.
At the age of 14, Guerrero’s parents and older brother, who immigrated from Colombia, were deported. Since, Guerrero has been advocate for immigration reform.
“It is important for students to try and learn something there so that they can be advocates and really support this cause, and I know that there are a lot of student groups that are really partaking in this,” said Cucchiara.
“I would encourage students to go because they are going to get a perspective that they haven’t been privy to for the past six months or so.”
Tickets are on sale for $2 at the University Center Information Desk for all UCCS students, faculty and staff. However, pricing will increase this week, so students are encouraged to purchase them now, said Cucchiarra.
“Parking may be a little challenging just because of class still in session and all, and all the folks that are going to come, so I recommend they take the 576 shuttle down,” said Cucchiara.
Tickets for community members will be $5 and can be purchased online or at the University Center Information Desk. Tickets can be purchased on uccs.edu/speaker as well.