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MSA National E-letter
March 2009
Assalamu Alaikum,
Dear Muslim students:

Welcome to MSA National's March edition of the E-letter! If you have an MSA success story or would like to share MSA news, we would love to hear from you. The deadline for submissions is the 15th of each month.
Please send all submissions to eletter@msanational.org.

We are also pleased to inform you that the E-letter is now accepting advertisements. To advertise in the E-letter, contact: advertise@msanational.org

Please note: MSA National does not endorse and is not responsible for any of the activities, events and projects listed in the E-letter other than those organized by MSA National itself.


Thank-you,
Your E-letter Team

In This Issue
From the President's Desktop
Updates From Your Zonal Reps
Take Your MSA to the Next Level!
Picture Essay: West Zone Conference
Its Zonal Conference Time!!
Follow MSA National on Twitter!
Internships Available to Students
Student Opportunities
Spotlight on MSA
From the President's Desktop

From the President's Desktop
By Asma Mirza
March 2009

Salams MSAers! I pray everyone had a great Spring break and is getting ready for finals & Zonal Conference Season!

Alhamdulilah, its been a busy month!  This month MSA National met with the FBI to discuss our concerns and give feedback on FBI programs.  We also met with other Muslim organizations regularly to discuss important issues facing our community.  Insha'Allah we look forward to continuing to work with our brothers and sisters on these matters.

This month I attended the first zonal conference: the MSA National West Zone USA Conference in Boulder, Colorado.  Masha'Allah it was great to participate in this intimate conference as participants discussed issues ranging from the American Muslim identity to community service.  I encourage you to take a look at the video essay in this Eletter about the conference.  May Allah swt bless Sr. Yasmin, Br. Bader and all the volunteers that made this event possible!

Insha'Allah the next zonal conference is only a few days away!  The annual MSA National East Zone conference will be held Aprial 10-12th in Pennsylvania!  Given the amazing program, dynamic speakers and large number of attendees, this conference promises to be one of the best East Zone conferences yet!  Please keep Br. Tauqeer, Br. Sami, Br. Suhail and all the volunteers in your prayers.  And don't forget to register!

As the Spring Semester comes to an end, we are wrapping up the MSA National PATH program.  Hundreds of students benefited from 1-day management workshops in their regions.  However, there are several more projects left this semester.  From the MNAli Scholarship for MSAers to a new innovative competition, keep your eyes and ears peeled for some exciting news!
 
As we head into Zonal Conference season, I pray Allah swt grants us all success on our final papers (and that everyone registers for the Zonal Conferences :)!

Wassalams!

Asma Mirza
President
MSA National

Updates From Your Zonal Reps

West Zone USA

Salaam WEST ZONE!

I'm thrilled to announce that our MSA National WestZone Conference on March 20-22nd of this year in Boulder, CO was a beautiful conference and a wonderful opportunity to meet the communities of Colorado.  Our conference featured Sa'ad Quadri, Dr. Altaf Husain, and Dr. Kamran Riaz who all presented on issues of Muslim identity, family life, educational obligations, and the most important of all relationships--that of the humble servant to his or her Creator.  To watch a video recap of the conference click here.
 
I pray that we will insh'Allah have even more students be able to benefit from the fruits of our scholars and activist leaders for the next WestZone Conference.  It was an opportunity for all of us to remember the power of Islam to unite various communities throughout the United States with one common purpose--to please God and worship Him as He should be worshiped.  I encourage you all who have missed the conference in Colorado to think about attending the MSA West Conference in Riverside, CA coming up on April 10-12.  You can register at   http://msawest.net/registration.php?name=conference09
 
I pray that you all come back to school from your Spring Breaks rejuvenated to start this new season with renewed commitments and positive goals for the future.

Yasmin Elhady
West Zone Representative - USA

MSA National
 
 
East Zone USA
 
As-salam `alaykum East Zone USA,

We are less than two weeks and counting until MSA National's annual East Zone conference in Philadelphia, PA on April 10-12th. Insha'Allah we are expecting approximately 700 plus attendees this year from all across the east zone. For any of you who haven't registered, we are keeping conference-only registration open until a few days before the event.
 
This year's east zone program is very unique from previous years. On Friday night, a fashion show will be held exclusively for the sisters and on Saturday night, there will be a brothers' basketball tournament. 
 
Sisters, if you are interested in volunteering for the fashion show, please contact Sr. Rubbab at rubbab@gmail.com. Brothers, if you would like to register a team for basketball, please contact Br. Qasim at qsalimi@gmail.com. 
 
Along with these two programs we will have some of North America's greatest scholars and speakers come out for east zone. This dynamic and versatile program has been carefully fashioned over several weeks by the local volunteers and MSA National's PTF. Please do help spread the word for this year's east zone. Insha'Allah I am looking forward to seeing you all in the city of brotherly love in less then two weeks! If you have any questions about the conference please email ezusaconf@msanational.org.

Barak'Allahu feekum, 

Tauqeer Zaidi
East Zone Representative - USA
MSA National
email: ezrepusa@msanational.org
website: http://ezusa.msanational.org/
 
 
Central Zone USA
 
Assalamualaikum!
 
Insha'Allah the semester is going well for everyone!

The Central Zone has a few upcoming exciting projects and initiatives we'd like to offer. MSA National 101, what is MSA National? Interested in learning more about the history of MSA National and the resources they offer? The Central Zone is offering to set up virtual presentations where your MSA members can learn more and ask any questions they may have about MSA National or any of the services they offer. If interested, please e-mail me back so we can coordinate. Keep posted with updates as other projects the Zonal committee is working on will be announced shortly!
 
Lastly, the COMPASS PATH program will insha'Allah be held in the Central Zone very soon! Keep posted for the date and area; it may be in a community near you!
 
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, I'm only an e-mail away!
 
Wa Alaikum as Salam
 
Nura Sediqe
Central Zone Representative - USA
MSA National

Take Your MSA to the Next Level!


COMPASS is MSA National's state-of-the-art management training program. Designed to address the growing demand for management training programs from campus organizations, COMPASS strives to offer Muslim students the skills, tools, and resources they need to best serve their communities! Look here for more information.

Picture Essay: West Zone Conference


Thank you to all the volunteers, speakers and attendees who made the 2009 MSA National West Zone USA Conference a success!  To watch a video recap click here.



Zhur (early afternoon) prayer.




Dr. Liyakat Takim speaks on "Dealing With Duality".  The main session question and answer turned into a dynamic discussion
about the American Muslim identity.



During the COMPASS session, the MSA brothers
create and present a skit.



Sisters wait for the next workshop to start.



The conference bazaar.
MSA National Zonal Conferencea!

A Call to Change
Ambassadors in a New Era


In a year where "Change" dominated the news and politics, we realize that change starts with ourselves.  What are the elements of personal change?  As ambassadors of Islam on campus, at work, and in our everyday life how can we change ourselves so we best represent Islam?  Join dynamic speakers other Muslims from around your zone in exploring these topics and more!




 

East Zone USA: April 10-12th
University of Pennsylvania, PA
Register today: http://ezusa.msanational.org/conference/
 

Other Zonal Conference locaitons to be announced soon!!

 
Follow MSA National on Twitter!

MSA National is now on Twitter!  Stay in the loop and follow us at http://twitter.com/msanational



MSA National does not endorse and is not responsible for any of the activities, events and projects listed in the E-letter other than those organized by MSA National itself.  The following activities, events and projects are not organized by MSA National:



Jobs, Internships and Scholarships!

Several organizations are offering jobs and internships to students. Please contact the following organizations directly for additional questions and application procedures:
 
 
Islamic Scholarship Fund
 
ISF's goal is to encourage Muslim students to pursue a college or post-graduate degrees in humanities, social sciences, liberal arts and law through awarding annual scholarships of $1000-$10,000 to deserving students. Application deadline is May 15, 2009.

Eligibility
Scholarships are awarded to Muslim students who have been accepted to top-ranked four-year colleges and universities for undergraduate and post-graduate studies in the aforementioned areas of study. The applicant must meet the following minimum eligibility requirements:
1.       Practicing Muslim
2.       Citizen or permanent resident of U.S.
3.       Minimum of 3.4 grade point average
4.       Junior standing or above
5.       Active member of his or her community

For more information www.islamicscholarshipfund.org , email snikooei@islamicscholarshipfund.org or call at 650-995-6782.
 
 
Muslim Women Essay Contest
 
Asuda-USA and Azizah Magazine is organizing their first Annual Essay Contest to celebrate the significant role and remarkable achievements of Muslim women in society. All high school and college students are eligible to compete for $1,000 and a publication in Azizah magazine. The contest aims to increase a general awareness about the Muslim women's ongoing contributions to the social, economic, political, scientific, and global community. Essays must be submitted by April 30th. Essay topic and more information can be found at http://www.azizahmagazine.com/article/Contest_Essayflyer&form.pdf 
 
Interested in Bridging Gaps?

Are you, or someone you know, interested in working for the Muslim American community, bridging the gap between Muslims Americans and decision makers, understanding how policy gets shaped, and gaining experience in the non-profit sector?
 
MPAC Fall interns in Washington, DC and Los Angeles, CA work for the American Muslim community, understand how policy gets shaped, and gain experience in the non-profit sector. Apply today and you'll gain hands-on education, experience and skills in media, community, and government relations. You won't just be filing, you'll get to use your creativity and initiative to enhance or even create effective projects that help fulfill our mission. They are looking for team players who are self-motivated and enjoy working hard. Interns conduct daily briefings on local and national politics and media, write reports and analyses, interact with government officials, attend press conferences and organize events.
 
Applications for MPAC's Summer 2009 Internship Program in Washington, DC, New York City, NY and Los Angeles, CA are now available at www.mpac.org/internships. For more information, contact Communications Coordinator Zabie Mansoory at zabie@mpac.org.
 
Applications are due April 14th.
 

Matter and Beyond Essay Contest

The Fountain and Ebru TV have teamed up to offer college students an exciting opportunity to express their philosophical thoughts and win up to $2,000 in the Matter and Beyond Essay Contest. The winners will receive a cash prize and their essays will be published in the Fountain Magazine. Graduate and undergraduate students are invited to ponder and write about a topic that falls at the intersection of science and spirituality in the category of social sciences, religious studies, philosophy, or art and culture. The mission of the contest is to elicit writing talents towards a better understanding of human nature and the universe in an effort to appreciate the grace and wisdom of God.  The length of the essay must be between 1500 and 2500 words. The deadline for submission is May 30, 2009. Essays must be submitted online on the essay contest page at The Fountain magazine website www.fountainmagazine.com/essaycontest Contest winners will be announced on June 30, 2009.
 
Study Islam Overseas....For Free! 
 
Are you interested in learning more about Islam? Have you been searching for a golden opportunity to do so? Well, I'd like to inform you of the following...
 
The Qatar Faculty of Islamic Studies (QFIS) is offering full-scholarships for the following programs:
 
1. Master of Arts in Islamic Studies with a specialization in Contemporary Fiqh
2. Master of Arts in Islamic Studies with a specialization in Religions and Contemporary thought
3. Master of Arts in Public Policy in Islam
4. Master of Science in Islamic Finance
5. Diploma in Islamic Finance
6. Diploma in Islamic Studies
Scholarships include tuition, housing etc.. Deadline is March 31, 2009. Visit: http://www.qfis.edu.qa for more information.
 
ALIM Director
 
The American Learning Institute for Muslims (ALIM) is currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of Executive Director.
 
The Executive Director has overall responsibility for financial and operational management of the organization and is responsible for implementing and monitoring the strategic priorities for the organization.

The focus of the new Executive Director of ALIM will be to execute programs and events, as well as to manage volunteers and other resources. The individual must be a self-starter and a strong manager with a proven track record in event management, volunteer supervision, budgeting, and financial management. Excellent written and oral communication skills along with creativity and networking skills are required. Comfort with technology is also essential.
There may be an opportunity to work remotely; some travel will be required. Full US work authorization is required.
http://www.alimprog ram.com/careers/ careers.shtml

To apply, send a resume or CV to careers@alimprogram .com.  For more information, contact Diba Rab at 240-994-0843
 
IMAN Database/Research Assistant
 
IMAN is community organization that works for social justice, delivers a range of direct services, and cultivates the arts in urban communities.  The Database/Research Assistant is responsible for maintaining consistent and  accurate data for all IMAN key constituents including donors, prospective donors, funders, event attendees, volunteers, community activists, and board members.  The incumbent also has responsibility for identifying, researching, and tracking potential grant sources for IMAN's direct services, organizing, and arts and culture programming.  The Database/Research Assistant will work closely with IMAN staff to collect constituent data and
provide research data for their program areas. Please send resume and cover letter to jobs@imancentral.org
 
Summer Internship Program at IIIT!
 
Summer Internship Program 2009. The International Insitute of Islamic Thought is hosting a summer internship program for senior undergraduate and graduate students. The program is focused on instruction in core areas in Islamic studies as well as research and practical skills in Islamic finance, investment, organizatino, leaderhsip, civic and polictical engagement, non-profit management, publications, marketing, and IT. The program offers a full week of field visits, briefings, and discussions centered around the theme "Islam in America." A detailed description of the program can be found here.

Student Opportunities

 
Get Published!
 
A new literary journal,Adabiyate- American, is being created with a focus on Muslim American Authors.  Adabiyate- American will feature poems, mini-plays, short stories, essays, letters, and reviews from today's emerging Muslim American Authors and will be published quarterly with 80-100 pages. Each bound edition will be a wonderful addition to any library.  Adabiyate- American will seek to build bridges while revealing a very real American experienceof the fastest growing minority in our realm as only literature can do. They are currently seeking submissions for the debut issue.
 
For submission guidelines and to subscribe please visit www.adabiyate-american.synthasite.com
The Muslim Students Association National, headquartered near Washington D.C., has been serving Muslim students on colleges and university campuses across the United States and Canada since 1963. There are over 250 MSA chapters on university and college campuses throughout the United States and Canada.
 
Sincerely,

Your MSA National Board of Directors:

Ex-officio: Mohamed Sheibani

President: Asma Mirza

Vice President USA: Randa Kuziez

Treasurer: Danish Adil

 
Your MSA National Zonal Representatives:

East Zone Canada Rep: Kareem Mirza

East Zone US Rep: Tauqeer Zaidi

Central Zone US Rep: Nura Sediqe

West Zone Canada Rep: Samir Hassan

West Zone US Rep: Yasmin Elhady

 

Your MSA National Task Force Chairs:

Community Service: Yasmin Hussein

COMPASS: Idris El-Bakri

Dawah/Interfaith: Nasreen Badat

Media and Communication: Zainab Khan

Information Technology: Meraj Ahmed

Political Action: Asma Rehman

Programs: Atifa Chiragh

Spotlight on MSA:
  MSA National recognizes Temple University's MSA for initiating a recycling drive with halfdate.com. The MSA collected cellphones, ink cartridges, digital cameras, laptops, and more to benefit a woman's shelter and a sadaqa fund called Al-Maun.  The MSA was also interviewed by the University's newspaper and radio station and won the media coverage award from halfdate.com. Keep up the great work Temple MSA!


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