For the past 13 years, Salisbury University students have made an impact through the campus’ annual Relay For Life to benefit the American Cancer Society (ACS).
In April, the SU Relay For Life Committee achieved a long-term goal, reaching the $1 million mark for funds raised since the inaugural event in 2002. Earlier this month, they celebrated again, receiving the Excellence in Student Service Group Award from the Maryland-D.C. Campus Compact.
The non-profit association of public and private college provides leadership to colleges and universities in the region by advocating participation in public service and civic engagement programs. The award is given annually for leadership in and commitment to service projects that extend beyond co-curricular requirements or course-based service learning, with an emphasis on long-term, sustainable community impact.
“We would not have been as successful without our amazing planning committee and every single person who came to our event, donated and helped us take a stand against cancer,” said Amanda Vancleemput, 2015 SU Relay chairperson. “I care very much about this organization, and judging by the amount of love and support we receive from students, faculty and staff each year, I would say they care just as much, if not more.”
The ACS South Atlantic Division also honored SU’s Relay earlier this month, presenting it with the division’s Top Collegiate Fundraising Award. In addition, SU earned the Spirit of Relay and Colleges Against Cancer Leader of Hope awards.
“Our Relay leaders are so deserving of the recognition they’ve received,” said Debbie White, ACS community manager. “They worked tirelessly to achieve success while balancing workloads, class schedules and their volunteer hours. Their level of commitment and concern for others is admirable and a shining example of the leaders of the future at SU.”
The ACS awards were presented as SU’s Relay committee was volunteering at Hope Lodge in Baltimore. One of 31 such facilities in the United States, Baltimore’s Hope Lodge offers cancer patients living outside of Baltimore but receiving treatment in the city a free place to stay. Students volunteered during the lodge’s annual reunion, during which former guests reunite and rekindle old friendships.
SU’s 14th annual Relay For Life is scheduled Friday-Saturday, April 24-25. For more information call 410-543-6030 or visit the SU website at www.salisbury.edu.
