Internationally Recognized Activist Speaks to College Students on Importance of Public Service

WASHINGTON – March 16, 2009 – In celebration of Women’s History Month, Suraya Pakzad, founder of The Voice of Women Organization (VWO), will speak to a group of college students about her life experiences, her organization’s work to further women’s rights and the importance of public service.  The event will take place on Monday, March, 16, 2009 from 7:30 – 8:30pm at The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars (TWC).

 “Suraya Pakzad has dedicated her life and career to the betterment of society,” said Mike Smith, president of TWC. “People like her serve as an example and remind us that giving back to the community is not just a fad, it is a lifelong commitment to bettering the world we live in.” 

“We are proud to say that The Washington Center provides organized programs and seminars like this one, building upon the academic foundation for students to get the most out of their internship experience,” added Smith.

VWO is one of a few women’s nongovernmental organizations in Afghanistan. It started in secret 21 years ago, teaching Afghan women and girls how to read. After the fall of the Taliban, the organization came out of hiding and began providing shelter and counseling to needy women and children who fled abusive relationships.

Prior to visiting the Washington Center, Pakzad will appear on the Chris Matthews Show and meet with the Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton.

The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars places domestic and international college students in semester long internships in the business, nonprofit and government sectors. In addition to engaging in the DC experience, interns will participate in seminars, lectures and attend classes. Some programs offered by TWC include the opportunity to explore the First 100 Days of Barack Obama's presidency and discuss its impact on American life, discussions on critical issues facing the Arab world and US and China Relations.

For more information on The Washington Center, please visit www.twc.edu or contact Alex Osorio via email at aosorio@epicmediarelations.com or by phone at 202.379.2860.

ABOUT THE WASHINGTON CENTER
 
Established in 1975, The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars (TWC) is an independent, nonprofit organization that serves hundreds of colleges and universities in the United States and other countries by providing students challenging opportunities to work and learn in Washington, D.C. for academic credit. The Washington Center has more than 40,000 alumni who have become leaders in numerous professions and nations around the world.

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