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Jason Foster, SDSU Media Relations Manager
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

White Honored for Efforts to Support Colleges and Universities
SDSU Ambassadors for Higher Education Bestow Award on Longtime Pete Wilson Aide

SAN DIEGO, Monday, Nov. 5, 2001 - Bob White, one of the most influential figures in San Diego and California politics from the late 1960s to the early 1990s, received an Achievement in Public Service Award from San Diego State University's Ambassadors for Higher Education on Saturday, Nov. 3, for his efforts to support colleges and universities throughout his political career.

San Diego State University President Stephen L. Weber, with former governor Pete Wilson in attendance, presented White with the award at reception prior to the SDSU vs. University of New Mexico football game. White served as Wilson's chief of staff or in other key posts during Wilson's tenures as San Diego mayor, state assemblyman, U.S. senator and governor.

Weber, Vice President for University Advancement Theresa Mendoza and Ambassadors for Higher Education chairman Jerry Dressel also honored White publicly with a brief on-the-field ceremony between the first and second quarters of the game.

"Through good times and tough times, Bob helped guide, protect and grow the educational resources at San Diego State University and other public colleges and universities throughout the state," Dressel said. "The policies he shaped and implemented helped assure countless students could access and receive a quality education."

White, who graduated from SDSU in 1965 with a degree in journalism and political science, has twice been honored as the university's Alumnus of the Year. He now serves as managing partner of California Strategies, a statewide public affairs firm.

The SDSU Ambassadors for Higher Education is a network of community members who accept the challenge of building bridges between the California State University, SDSU and the people that need and support higher education. They help develop agendas and strategies consistent with CSU objectives that promote higher education at all levels.

San Diego State University is the oldest and largest higher education institution in the San Diego region. Since it was founded in 1897, SDSU has grown to offer bachelor's degrees in 78 areas, master's degrees in 61 areas and doctorates in 13. SDSU's more than 33,000 students participate in academic curricula distinguished by direct contact with faculty and an increasing international emphasis that prepares them for a global future.

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