A famous journalist, an internationally acclaimed director and a popular poet are just a few of the speakers that will be joining Oxnard College students on campus this semester for the Literature Arts and Lecture Series.

The series, supported by the Oxnard College Foundation, brings big names to the college to talk to students. Steven Lopez, Ako Eyong and Deena Metzger are only some of the celebrities speaking.

The series was started 13 years ago in hopes that students would learn about different cultures and experiences.

“Some are informative, some are entertaining and some combine both of these,” said Shelly Savren, the series coordinator. “I want students to be educated and at the same time enjoy themselves.”

The lectures will be held every Wednesday from 12:45-1:45 in LS-8, the Clock Tower Auditorium. The events are free to all. And students, faculty, staff and community members are widely encouraged to attend.

“I was inspired to do this because I wanted to bridge the gap between the institute of education and the community,” said Savren. “I wanted to have a forum for education beyond the classroom.”

The series will kick off this Wednesday, September 23, with CJ Jones. In honor of Deaf Appreciation Month, the deaf director, actor and writer will screen his DVD “See What I’m Saying” and perform storytelling and comedy. Jones’s lecture has been moved to LA-6 in anticipation of a large crowd.

Free parking will be available in the A & B parking lots located near Bard Road. For directions, flyers, or other information, contact series coordinator Shelly Savren at [email protected] or (805) 986-5800 ext: 1951