Press Release for Shannon Kook-Chun’s visit to Chicago

For Immediate Release:

Degrassi Visits Columbia College

Shannon Kook-Chun, of the hit-television show Degrassi, will be speaking at the Conaway Center, 1104 S. Wabash from 6:30 – 8 PM on Thursday, November 18, 2010. The event will be hosted by Columbia’s International Student Organization (ISO), Asian Student Organization (ASO), the Television Department, Asian/American Student Affairs, and Office of LGBT Culture and Community.

Shannon Kook-Chun is the featured speaker during the week of November 15-19, 2010 in celebration of the 11th annual International Education Week; a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education. Its mission is to encourage participation of all individuals and institutions to celebrate the benefits of international education in the United States and around the world. Columbia College is just one institution of the thousands of schools, colleges and universities, embassies, international organizations, businesses, associations and community organizations actively involved.

Shannon Kook-Chun portrays the character of Zane Park, an openly gay teen who is the love interest of one of the main characters, Riley. Kook-Chun was born and raised in South Africa during apartheid and is of Chinese decent.

“We chose Shannon because his ethnic and cultural background transcends every aspect of International Student Organization and facilitates a forum for thought provoking discourse,” explains SOC Representative for International Student Organization, Kevin Obomanu. “Additionally, his growing popularity and acting resume are inspirational to the budding artists at the College.”

Tickets will be available for Columbia students, faculty, and staff should be ready by tomorrow and for the public on October 31st at noon. There will be a password in order to reserve tickets that will also be available on 10/31. Space is limited and all attendees are encouraged to arrive early. Everyone is welcome to ask questions at this event.

International Student Organization is also planning a tailgating party, International Fair, a Nollywood documentary, and an international mixer throughout the week. If you would like to get involved in the planning of International Education Week, or would just like to hang out with some cool cats, ISO meets every Friday at 5 PM, 618 S. Michigan Ave., 4th Floor.