PSU donates to tsunami aid

Portland State Provost Michael Reardon presented Mercy Corps Director of Program Operations Steve Claborne with a check for $1,900 yesterday to be donated to relief efforts for victims of the tsunamis that struck South Asia Dec. 26.

Portland-based Mercy Corps has been deeply involved in the ongoing relief efforts through the region affected by the tsunamis, with volunteers helping to clear wreckage, distribute supplies and restore infrastructure.

"I can guarantee that this will make a difference," Claborne said upon receiving the donation.

The fundraising effort at PSU was led by Christina Luther, assistant director of international services at Portland State, and several student leaders who met in January to discuss what the school could do to help with the relief effort. Portland State has over 300 international students who come from regions affected by the tsunamis, according to Luther.

Students set up collection jars at 15 locations around campus to raise the money. The men’s basketball team also donated the proceeds from a half-court shot contest at one of their games.