PHOTO GALLERY

Jan. 9, 2009

Bronx, N.Y. - The 2008-09 Fordham University men's basketball team demonstrated the Jesuit philosophy of homines pro aliis (people for others) today, brightening the lives of some Bronx youngsters by presenting the children with presents at the St. Barnabas Hospital's Pediatric Clinic in the Bronx.

"We've been doing this every year I've been at Fordham and it's something we look forward to," said Fordham head men's basketball coach Dereck Whittenburg. "The players love to see the smiles on the faces of the kids as they hand out the presents. We feel very fortunate to be able to give back to the community."

The gifts presented to the children were donated by Fordham basketball fans at all men's and women's home basketball games prior to Christmas as well as by members of the Athletic Department. Besides the gifts, the children also received Fordham basketball yearbooks from the student-athletes.

"We are so excited to have the team here," said Patricia Belair, senior vice president of the hospital. "As the parent of a college student, I know how busy their lives can be. So it is so nice when the student-athletes can take time out of their day to spread some cheer."

Fordham's Chairman of the Board of Trustees and Vice Board Chairman at St. Barnabas John Tognino, says that reaching out to the children is "a great reflection upon the spirit at Fordham University. We are all proud to be Rams!"

The Rams will return to action on Sunday afternoon, January 11th, as they host Xavier University in the Rose Hill Gym at 1:00 p.m. The game is one of more than 90 games this season between teams from the 28 Jesuit colleges and universities across the United States. Each of the 28 is dedicated to strong academics and teaching women and men to serve others and live a faith that does justice.