raising event. The fund raiser was well organized with an educational and social outcome for the students.

Students and others involved in the University of Bridgeport fund raiser for earthquake
victims in India , Kashmir and Pakistan present some $2,500 in checks to relief organizations. From left to right, Fahim Farid, a graduate student from Pakistan; Pat Scharr, director of major gifts for the American Red Cross in Southern Connecticut; Shahryar Nagori, a graduate student from Pakistan; Samy Talukder, an under-graduate student from Bangladesh; Peg Blackburn, director of planned giving for Save the Children; Nadia Babar, a financial analyst who is from Pakistan, of Save the Children; Edina Oestreicher, UB's director of student programming and community services; Muhammed Balouch, a graduate student from Pakistan, and Ayesha Patel, a graduate student from Pakistan.

The event kicked off primarily with a recitation from the Holy Quran by UB student: Mr. Anes Aref, conforming to traditional Islamic practices, while University of Bridgeport student masters of ceremonies: Samiur Rehman and Ayesha Patel entertained the crowd throughout the night bringing guest speakers on stage.

UB President Neil Albert Salonen also gave a brief speech emphasizing that humanitarian aid is a responsibility shared by all and that it transcends religion, race and geographic boundaries. Salonen not only expressed his deep sorrow and sympathy for the victims of the earthquake, but also expressed his well wishes for the vibrant, South-East Asian community at the University of Bridgeport to remain united and continue growing and assisting those in need during times of need. Guests also had the opportunity to listen to the views of affected victims, as two such victims, took the stage, allowing the stage to serve as a platform for them to express their concerns of the already vanished parts of their motherland.

As a sign of respect and appreciation, the guests had the opportunity of enjoying a rich, Indian cuisine – courtesy Noor Mahal Restaurant – accompanied by traditional, Indian music in the background with a power point presentation showing the devastated regions in Pakistan and India and the nature of the destructions. Generous donations were also made by students and guests reaching close to $2,500.