For the third year, the Master of Science in Accounting program’s Student Activity Board, the Accounting Students Association, Beta Alpha Psi and the National Association of Black Accountants partnered with Special Olympics of Michigan for their annual basketball tournament.

Over 522 Special Olympians came to Michigan State University’s IM West in early February to take part in the Young Athletes Program and Basketball Tournament. MS students volunteered in record numbers, with a total of 170 students helping younger athletes learn to shoot and dribble, and acting as scorekeepers, timekeepers and referees for the tournament.

“This event is all about giving back, and we’re pleased with the number of students who continue to take part and volunteer their time,” says Director of the MS Accounting Program Shannon Mulally. “This event has become very special to us, and it really shows how important volunteering is to these students.”

The group also planned a fundraiser at Dublin Square that included a raffle for items like a basketball autographed by Tom Izzo, who graciously stopped by this year’s tournament to support the event. With a goal of raising at least $800, students will donate the proceeds from their efforts to help Special Olympics purchase equipment.