Stevenson University Community Raises More Than $42,000 at Fifth Annual American Cancer Society Relay for Life
Stevenson University’s fifth annual American Cancer Society Relay for Life®, held April 10-11, raised approximately $42,600 in support of cancer research and various programs for cancer patients. Collectively, in the five years, the event at Stevenson has now raised more than a total of $180,000.
The Relay, which ran from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., is an initiative aimed at celebrating cancer survivors, remembering loved ones lost to cancer, and fighting back against the disease. In addition to the fundraising walk, in which team members take turns walking an indoor track throughout the night, the event included food, team run activities, and entertainment provided by student groups on campus. More than 450 individuals comprising a total of 38 teams rallied together for the cause.
“Stevenson is such a courageous and giving community,” said Jordyn Hoffman, a junior Education major and the event’s team lead. “It feels great to be a part of a community that wants to do well for others, finish the fight, and make this cancer’s last generation. I could not be any more proud of how hard all these participants worked to give so much for the American Cancer Society.”
As is the case every year, one of the most significant and emotional moments during the event is the Luminaria Ceremony, in which local survivors and caregivers of cancer patients speak about their personal experiences while the lights are off and the track is surrounded by glowing luminaria that bear the name of individuals who have battled cancer. The speakers were followed by a moving slideshow of those who have passed from cancer.
“The atmosphere throughout the night was incredible. I’ve never felt more supported in an event at Stevenson than I did the night of Relay for Life,” added sophomore Emilee Thursby, a Middle School Education major and co-chair of the event. “I’ve always known that Stevenson University is way more than a University. We are a community and we are a family. At Relay, this was proven to the highest level.”
Although the Relay itself is complete, donations are still being accepted. To make a donation, or for more information, visit Stevenson’s Relay for Life page.
With millions of supporters, the American Cancer Society saves lives and creates a world with less cancer and more birthdays by helping people stay well, helping people get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back. The American Cancer Society is a nationwide, community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, the ACS has regional and local offices throughout the country that support 11 geographical Divisions and ensure it has a presence in every community
Stevenson University, known for its distinctive career focus, is the third-largest independent university in Maryland with more than 4,400 students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, and adult bachelor’s programs at locations in Stevenson and Owings Mills.