Fredonia is poised to approach or exceed the success of last year’s Relay for Life, thanks to donations that reached $27,418.38 when the students departed Steele Hall Arena early Sunday morning, April 17.
“This is the highest we have ever made by the event date, so everyone has been very excited,” said Relay for Life Co-chair Stephanie Willis. The 2015 American Cancer Society fundraiser generated more than $33,000, well within the reach of this year’s event, the 10th that Fredonia students have conducted.
Communication Associate Professor Ann Carden, who was diagnosed with Leiomyosarcoma, an extremely rare form of cancer three years ago, welcomed everyone and received a standing ovation. Ms. Carden is participating in a clinical trial. President Virginia Horvath also offered remarks during the opening ceremony.
Student groups scheduled to perform throughout the evening included: Some Like it Hot, Random Acts, Blue Ice, Premium Blend, Ayden, the Guerrillas, Percussion Guild and Vocal Point. Other attractions included “Pie Your Professor,” “Minute to Win It,” Zumba with Eva, a tug-of-war and musical chairs.
Nearly 400 people took part in the luminaria ceremony at 9 p.m., and a few hundred remained unit the Sunday, 3 a.m. closing.
“We ended the night by singing happy birthday and passing slices of a huge birthday sheet cake,” Ms. Willis added.
As has been in the case in past years, donations will continue to be accepted through the end of August.
To make a donation online, go to www.relayforlife.org/SUNYFredoniaNY or contact Emily.Marciniak@cancer.org and mention Fredonia!
