Campus unites for 2019 Relay for Life

The 15th Annual Relay for Life of Binghamton University, a student-run fundraiser that benefits the American Cancer Society (ACS), was nationally recognized this year by the ACS for the largest year-to-year growth for a campus relay, which saw a 69.1 percent increase in donations from 2017 to 2018. “It is the largest student-run fundraiser on campus,” said Josh Normandeau, executive co-director for the relay. The 12-hour relay begins at 4 p.m. Friday, April 26, at the Binghamton University Events Center.

This year’s relay is on track to set a new record with $54,000 raised to date and donations increasing every day. “Last year, the University relay exceeded its goal of $50,000 by raising over $71,000,” said Catherine Faughnan, ACS Northeast Region community development manager. “This year, the goal was set to $100,000 and the campus is well on its way to meeting the goal.”

To capitalize on the relay’s 2018 momentum, students recruited staff support for the 2019 event, with Auxiliary Services’ partners stepping up to contribute. “Staff involvement is definitely up this year and Auxiliary Services’ partners have done a great job publicizing and supporting the event,” said Catherine Faughnan.

In addition, student leaders from Relay for Life recently made a presentation to the Professional Staff Senate to promote faculty and staff participation. “The support from faculty and staff has been great because it keeps the campus community engaged as well as helps with fundraising. Without the support, we wouldn’t reach our fundraising goals,” said Normandeau.

The Binghamton University Bookstore has promoted a “Round Up for Relay” campaign at checkout with all proceeds going to the University’s relay. “We have always supported causes that fight for the cure,” said Heather Sheffer, store manager. “This year we decided it would be great to get the entire store team involved by raising money for Relay for Life right at our registers.” Donor’s name tags are then hung in the bookstore. “Our walls upstairs and down are plastered with names of donors. including our incoming first-year student families, a great sign of support and hope,” said Sheffer.

As they have for years, Binghamton University Dining Services (BUDS) will sponsor the survivors’ dinner and donate free concessions for the 12-hour event. “Cancer is something that has touched each of our lives in many ways. We are grateful to have the opportunity to be able to contribute to this worthy community fundraiser,” said Jim Ruoff, BUDS district manager.

Paint the Campus Purple Week begins Monday, April 22, when the entire campus becomes involved in promoting the relay.

An opening ceremony and survivor walk at 4 p.m. kicks off the actual event, and a luminaria ceremony will be held at 10 p.m. when luminaria will celebrate support and remembrance. Music, games, fundraising activities and a shared sense of purpose around this very important cause will be showcased throughout the event. “I relay so no one ever again has to hear they have cancer or has to lose someone to cancer,” said Normandeau.

The money raised from this relay benefits the Broome County American Cancer Society chapter by providing access to local care services and research grants. In 2018, nine patients received 80 rides to treatment, 70 patients received wigs and 81 patients had 1,384 stays at ACS Hope Lodges or partner hotels. “Nationally since 1991, there is a 26 percent decrease in cancer deaths,” said Faughnan. “That equates to 2.3 million lives and the money we raise is contributing to that.”

For more information about how to become involved in the Binghamton University Relay for Life or to participate, visit the Relay for Life of Binghamton University website or Facebook page.