For the ninth year, Bradley has been involved in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, a fundraiser for breast cancer.
This year, the race will be hosted on Saturday, May 8, at the Metro Centre and Bradley’s own President Glasser is the Honorary Chairwoman for the race.
Karen Metzinger, the captain for Team Bradley and director of alumni publications, said she felt a strong calling to be a part of the race when she heard Glasser speak about her breast cancer diagnosis.
Metzinger has participated in the race for 23 years, but she said she has high hopes for this year in particular.
“When you hear someone like President Glasser speak so openly and candidly about battling breast cancer, you feel a call to action to help and show your support,” she said. “Last year was a building year, but this year we really want to get the student body involved.”
Race participation requires $30 which includes a T-shirt and race packet that will be mailed directly to any participant who signs up by April 23.
“I know $30 can be a lot of money, especially for college students,” Metzinger said. “But it is for a good cause.”
Metzinger said another reason people hesitate to be a part of the race is because they think only women participate.
“This disease can affect anyone,” she said. “It is so inspiring to see the men show up to run.”
Metzinger said about 100 students signed up last year. This year, she said she would like to see at least 300 take part.
“We want to encourage anyone to run, not just the students – family, friends, anybody,” Metzinger said.
Student participants said they pride themselves on giving back.
“It was a great experience doing it with a group from Bradley because we had a chance to show that the Bradley community really is a family,” said senior marketing major Trisha Koors, a participant in last year’s race.
Senior nursing major Danielle Lafond said she has participated in the race for the past two years in Peoria.
“I think it’s a great cause and such a moving experience to see all the supporters and survivors come together all for one purpose,” she said.
Metzinger said she would appreciate any feedback or ideas from students, and can be e-mailed at kmetzinger@bumail.bradley.edu.
“We are very anxious to see any student input,” Metzinger said. “I hope the students will help us reach our goal. It would be inspiring for President Glasser and the community of Peoria to see such a great student turnout.”
A sign-up will be available at the next Late Night BU, tonight. Students who want to sign up should bring a credit card. There will also be another sign-up at the Late Night BU on March 26. The morning of the race there will be a complimentary breakfast as well as free shuttles to and from the Metro Centre.
