Yesterday, the second annual Hoops for Haiti, sponsored by the Brandeis Haiti Initiative, took place in the Gosman Sports and Convocation Center. This board commends the efforts of the BHI for continuing to advocate its mission and bring its important goals to the forefront of the student body's consciousness.While last year's event was a direct response to the earthquake that devastated Haiti, this year the BHI is donating the funds raised to the Empowering Through Education Camp, Partners in Health and Hope for Haiti; a portion of the proceeds will also be donated to earthquake and tsunami relief efforts in Japan. The BHI is setting an excellent example for disaster relief efforts on campus by continuing to support Haiti even after the cause has largely moved beyond the public's attention. Instead of disbanding after the immediate danger from the earthquake passed, the BHI has demonstrated its ability to adapt its mission to work toward improving conditions in Haiti through education.

Other relief efforts would do well to follow suit by remaining conscious of the fact that, even after the initial shock of a tragedy passes, relief work is still necessary.

Additionally, this board congratulates the students, staff and faculty who came together to support this important cause. There are few events on campus that create a fun, relaxed atmosphere in which students, staff and faculty can interact so freely. In that same vein, it is unfortunate that the event did not receive the same level of attendance that it did last year-with a higher level of participation and attendees, it could serve to bring the community together and demonstrate our continued commitment to social justice.

The BHI's decision to donate its funds in part to ETE Camp, which was founded by Brandeis alumna Shaina Gilbert '10, also proves Brandeis' continued support for our community members.

By demonstrating our dedication both to important causes and to each other, students stay true to our university's core values and are able to effect lasting change.