Relay for Life at Alfred State raises nearly $24,000 in April

Relay 2016

At a glance

Heather Cromwell, Mary Rose Ricotta, Karla Chun, Michael Metzger, Brittany Richards, Andrea Pollotta, and Tyler RibbleNearly 250 participants from 19 teams helped raise almost $24,000 for the fight against cancer April 8-9 during Alfred State’s sixth annual Relay for Life.

Big Blue Ox graphic

Nearly 250 participants from 19 teams helped raise almost $24,000 for the fight against cancer April 8-9 during Alfred State’s sixth annual Relay for Life.

The theme of this year’s Relay was “Toon Out Cancer,” in which each registered team selected a cartoon theme for their campsite. Events were held throughout the evening that gave teams a chance to show their dedication to their theme.

Krystal Perlman, college Help Desk coordinator and adviser to the student-run Alfred State Relay for Life Planning Committee, said this year’s Relay was one of the most well-attended so far. She said the event even had a surprise visit from retired faculty member Michelle Green, who doubled the fundraising efforts of the Gamma Theta Gamma Fraternity team.

“Michelle is a wonderful supporter of our event and is always brainstorming ways we can try to get more faculty, retired faculty, and community members involved in our event,” Perlman said.

Brittany Richards, event chair and a forensic science technology major from Geneseo, said this year’s Relay was “beyond successful” from the organizing committee’s point of view.

“We had nearly 20 clubs and organizations participate in the event and bring such a positive attitude,” she said. “The interactions and donations from everyone involved – teams, donors, committee members – made this Relay one of our highest fundraising efforts ever on campus and I am so proud to be a part of such a wonderful organization and event.”

Mackenzie Howe, Relay for Life community manager, said the Alfred State students were “a blast to work with,” and added that the participation from the student body was a remarkable thing to experience.

“Many people tend to think cancer only effects older individuals, but it was very moving to see this group of young adults celebrate life, remember their loved ones lost, and fight back against this awful disease,” Howe said. “The American Cancer Society appreciates every dollar raised by the Alfred State students and we look forward to future events.”

Heather Cromwell, Mary Rose Ricotta, Karla Chun, Michael Metzger, Brittany Richards, Andrea Pollotta, and Tyler Ribble

Pictured from left to right are Heather Cromwell, technology management, Lockport; Mary Rose Ricotta, forensic science technology, Derby; Karla Chun, forensic science technology, Broadalbin; Michael Metzger, digital media and animation, Rochester; Brittany Richards, forensic science technology, Geneseo; Andrea Pollotta, business administration, Rochester; and Tyler Ribble, business administration, Elmira.