Webster University Hosts “Ugly Betty” Star Tony Plana

Plana to speak on diversity

ST. LOUIS, Sept. 15, 2009 - The Multicultural Center and International Student Affairs (MCISA) hosts nationally known actor, director and producer, Tony Plana, will discuss the difficult topic of diversity on Monday, Sept. 21, 2009 at 7 p.m. in the Loretto-Hilton Center, 130 Edgar Road.

Cuban-born actor, Tony Plana, is one of the most recognizable Latino actors of stage and screen and has directed, produced and starred in more than 60 major films. He is currently one of the stars of the hit ABC show, “Ugly Betty.” Additionally, he serves as executive art director of the East LA Classic Theatre, where he demonstrates his dedication to serving the Latino community through educational outreach theater programs.

In his presentation, “Embracing the Spirit of Multiculturalism,” Plana advocates for the recognition of minority contributions to U.S. history, and shares stories from his youth, emphasizing how he embraced education in order to achieve. Celebrating diversity, human values, and tolerance, he encourages audiences to move past the civil rights struggles of the 20th century, and to embrace the complexity of identity in society today.

For more information contact Niki Femmer, 314-246-7596.

With its home campus in St. Louis, Webster University is a worldwide institution committed to delivering high-quality learning experiences that transform students for global citizenship and individual excellence. Founded in 1915, Webster offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs through five schools and colleges, and a global network of more than 100 campuses. Its 20,000-plus student population represents almost 150 nationalities. The University’s core values include excellence in teaching, joining theory and practice, small class sizes, and educating students to be lifelong independent learners, fully prepared to participate in an increasingly international society.

Since opening its first campus overseas in Geneva in 1978, Webster has become a recognized leader and innovator in global education, with an international presence that now includes campuses in London; Vienna; Amsterdam and Leiden, the Netherlands; Shanghai, Shenzhen and Chengdu, China; and Bangkok and Cha-am, Thailand. Webster also has educational partnerships with universities in Mexico and Japan.

###