With 38 teams and approximately 850 participants, Relay for Life committee member Emily Fornek was pleased.
“I think the event went great!” said Fornek. “A lot of things went really well this year.”
By the end of the event, $24, 492 was raised, and donations are still being submitted. The proceeds go to the American Cancer Society.
The night proved to be packed with activities including performances by multicultural dance troupe UNYK, Augustana Dance Company and HeyWire Productions.
The 12-hour event was filled with activities, which included Zumba, a tango lesson from Martini Swingers and a performance by Scott Rusch, a pop-rock singer from Woodstock, Ill.
Fornek was relieved that both the check-in went smoothly, as well as the entertainment.
“I think our Publicity Committee did a great job with advertising,” said Fornek. “Our entertainment committee also did a wonderful job, as we had some cool events that we haven’t had at Relay.”
As entertaining and jam-packed as the night was, it was also a time for reflection.
“I feel strongly about Relay for Life because both my mom and grandpa survived cancer,” said sophomore Ana Hernandez. “I feel that Relay for Life is a good cause because we all get together, put our differences aside, and come together to find a cure for cancer.”
Hernandez represented Epsilon Sigma Alpha at the event, one of many Greek groups that participated the entire night.
Senior Samantha Swanborg, representing Alpha Psi Omega and Sigma Kappa Tau, found that the event brought her closer to members of both groups.
“I have found that cancer has affected many of my friends,” said Swanborg. “This event was a great bonding experience to work together to support those that have been affected by cancer.”
Sophomore Frances Compere, of Sigma Alpha Iota, agreed.
“I thought that overall it was a great experience especially when we heard from the survivors,” said Compere. “It makes you realize just how many people are touched by cancer around you.”
With the event over, the committee is already back to the drawing board.
“We are meeting later this week as a committee to review the event and decide what we would like to keep the same and what changes we would like to make for next year,” said Fornek.
The Relay for Life committee is currently recruiting members for next year.