America East Conference will make a contribution of $20,000 on behalf of the athletics departments of its member institutions to the relief and recovery efforts pertaining to the events of September 11. The conference will make a series of donations over the next few years. The first donation of $5,000 has been made to the Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund. This fund assists with the educational tuition for children of those lost on September 11.
"The membership of America East wants to contribute along with the many other corporations and individuals that have come forward since September 11 to help those that are in need due to this national tragedy," said Chris Monasch, Commissioner of America East.
The America East Board of Directors voted in favor of a contribution at its meeting in Albany, N.Y. on October 19. The conference's Executive Committee has been working since then to determine where educational funds are needed and which agencies are distributing the funds in the most efficient fashion.
"The America East institutions, like so many colleges and universities, lost students, alumni and friends in the tragedy of September 11," said Gary Strickler, Athletic Director at Boston University and President of the America East Executive Committee. "The Board of Directors feels strongly that the donations should address the educational needs of descendents of the victims. We hope this will serve as a lasting tribute by providing financial assistance to deserving undergraduates for years to come."
Members institutions of America East include: University at Albany, Binghamton University, Boston University, University of Hartford, University of Maine, University of New Hampshire, Northeastern University, Stony Brook University and University of Vermont.