Business students raised $1,873 for the American Red Cross's relief efforts in Haiti.

LAKELAND, Fla.--  Florida Southern College business students who participated in a "new business venture" class project raised $1,873 for the American Red Cross's relief efforts in Haiti.

The Haiti Hope Bracelet project, initiated by students in a class in FSC's School of Business and Economics, was launched just two weeks following the 7.0-magnitude earthquake that struck Haiti on Jan. 12. The project ran through the end of the spring semester. Students sold approximately 850 red bracelets emblazoned with the word "Hope" on campus and in the community.

Dr. Michael Knudstrup, assistant professor of business administration, led the class of mostly juniors and seniors. "We are using engaged learning methods more and more within the School of Business and Economics," Dr. Knudstrup said. It actively involves students in the learning process, which this project certainly did."

To efficiently run the business venture and fundraising campaign, the students created different departments such as those that would be found in the corporate world. Students held positions such as project managers, marketing associates, accountants, and permit managers.