University students brought underserved inner-city boys one step closer to what they have been missing during their lives – quality education.
Pi Sigma Epsilon members rounded up Saturday for a video gaming basketball tournament at Best Buy. The video game competition was put on to raise money and increase awareness for Desire Street Academy, a private Christian-based high school for underprivileged boys. The school gives boys the chance to rise up from crime- and poverty-ridden neighborhoods.
DSA was relocated from New Orleans to Baton Rouge after Hurricane Katrina because the school was destroyed by eight feet of water.
“We believe every student should have an opportunity to receive higher education,” said Susan Reiners, marketing junior and president of the business fraternity. “Just like everyone else.”
Isonel Brown, development and business management for DSA, said sponsors and donors grant scholarships to give students an opportunity for an enriching education.
The sponsorships enhance the educational experience because students learn in smaller classrooms with a great staff, Brown said. DSA strives for great academics, athletics and art with a spiritual emphasis, she said.
“Actually, we just had two seniors sign a contract with LSU,” Brown said.
Andrew Remson, EA Sports representative to LSU and communication studies senior, said this event was a great opportunity for EA Sports to support LSU organizations.
“Our goal is to help student organizations raise money for events,” Remson said. “Not only are we helping LSU students, we are giving back to the Baton Rouge community.”
This was the first time Pi Sigma Epsilon held a video gaming tournament.
“Everything is running smoothly,” said Ben Gallagher, business administration junior. “It’s a pretty good turnout.”
The group raised $1,300 in sponsorships, donations and registration fees.
Winners of the tournament received gift certificates and free games from Best Buy, as well as free food and drinks from Mr. Gatti’s Pizza.
“We want to thank the fraternity for their help,” Brown said. “DSA wouldn’t exist without sponsors and a supportive community.”
—-Contact Emily Stuart at [email protected]
