Simon Hala - MU's outstanding volunteer

Giving students the chance to develop as good citizens is a key part of their educational experience. That's what led MU to recognize one of their own recently - BBA student Simon Hala received the "Student Volunteer Award" for his contributions to student and community life during the Fall 2011-2012 semester.

Simon's efforts were recognized under the auspices of the MU Cares program, the university's initiative to encourage and reward contributions to student life and charitable involvement. Simon, who was elected as a Student Representative by his peers, was an active volunteer in organizing major social and sporting events, as well as helping welcome new students at Orientation Week and through the MU Buddy Program for international students. He also led a Facebook drive which saw students raise enough funds to provide needy children at the Integrationshaus with two brand new laptops to help them complete their high school studies.

Hala is modest about his role: "I really enjoy doing my part so my fellow students enjoy themselves - and it was great to know we came together and did something nice for the kids who got the laptops!" This semester, Simon is continuing to make a difference by helping the Student Service Center plan a charity soccer tournament.

As thanks for his efforts, MU will donate 100 euros on Simon's behalf to the Football Helps Foundation, an Austrian-based charity which helps youngsters in Burundi through sport. The funds will assist Football Helps in preparing to launch another round of youth soccer tournaments in summer 2012.

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BBA Dean Prof. Dr. Dagmar Lund-Durlacher, Simon Hala, and Student Service Center Representative Jesse Alexander