In his weekly video message, President Ortiz talks about keeping the university accessible in terms of affordability, welcoming diverse people and being advocates for public higher education.

On Sunday, Ortiz spoke at Christ Our Redeemer AME Church in Irvine as a part of the CSU's Super Sunday outreach efforts. Since 2005, CSU leaders have spoken at African American churches on a Sunday in February to share information about preparing for college, applying for admission and qualifying for financial aid. The campaign has succeeded in increasing the numbers of African Americans applying for and enrolling in the CSU system.

Access to education is not limited to ethnic boundaries. The Access and disABILITY Alliance will host several events this week to raise awareness of people with disabilities. They include the Unity Luncheon on Tuesday, featuring best-selling author Terri Cheney speaking about struggles with bipolar disorder; and the Ability Allies Training session on Thursday, which is aimed at promoting disability awareness.

In other news, highlighted by President Ortiz:

• He thanks donors for the seventh annual Partners in Education Sponsor a Future Teacher Scholarship Awards Dinner, which was held last week. The scholarships give up to $5,000 to help teacher credential students.
• Tax Day 2013 will provide the community with more than just income tax preparation services on Saturday. This year, it also will feature 20 agencies that offer services and assistance to low-income households and the elderly.
• The retirement of Ed Barnes, the vice president for administrative affairs and chief financial officer.
• A number of exciting events are occurring this week, including the men's and women's basketball teams' games against Cal State Los Angeles on Faculty and Staff Appreciation Night this Wednesday, and then versus Cal State Dominguez Hills in Repack the Gym Night this Friday. The men's team has won the regular season conference championship for the first time, while the women have earned a spot in the CCAA tournament.

To read the entire video message, download a a PDF of the transcript.