Poker tourney to benefit SESDAC

South Dakota -- Professor Doug Peterson sees a need to empower students to make a difference on their campus and in their community, something he is hoping to do by using poker.

The 3rd Annual Charity Poker Tournament is set to take place Sunday, Dec. 2 at Pro's with play beginning at 2 p.m.

Peterson, along with Steve Ward, assistant director of Academic Affairs, leads students in their First Year Experience Class, "Poker and the Meaning of Life," in planning a charity poker event.

The class divides up into three committees: fundraising, publicity and tournament to organize the event.

After proposing several charities by writing essays, the class decided this year's tournament proceeds will go to SESDAC, an organization in Vermillion servicing disabled individuals in the area.

Freshman Tiffany Boecker has been working on planning the tournament and said SESDAC is a worthy charity to receive donations.

"Most of the people (they serve) don't have family, so it provides houses and things to do (for the disabled)," she said.

Putting on the tournament teaches students a lot about organization, planning and working together, Peterson said.

"It's an important skill because there aren't a whole lot of jobs you go into where you won't work with other people," he said.

The most recent assignment for students has been soliciting sponsors for the event and for specific tables.

Peterson said each year's group approaches the challenge in a different way, but learns the difficult process of asking for money and the need to be professional when approaching businesses.

Last year's tournament drew a crowd of around 100 people and class members hope to double the number to 200 participants this year.

Class member Keith Miller said he hopes a lot of people will come out and support the cause.

Food and drink will be available from Pro's and top players will receive prizes.

"Trying to get everything together and organized has been difficult," he said.

Sophomore Ben Brogie said he heard about the tournament from a friend in the class and will most likely play in the tournament.

"I'm not that great at poker, but the money goes to a good cause," he said. "So, if I lose, it won't be as bad."

Peterson said it won't probably hit the students how much good they have done until the event is in full swing or wrapping up Sunday evening, but he is impressed so far with this group of students' work.

"As a whole they have been a really dedicated group," he said.

Participants must be 18 or older and a minimum free will donation of at least $5 is suggested, Miller said.

Students from the class will have a table outside the commons the week prior to the event for pre-registration. Students and members of surrounding communities are eligible for play.

"It's going to be social, a good time and it's for a good cause," Miller said.

Volante Online

News Added: 20 November, 2007

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