ZTA hosts month of events to raise money for Breast Cancer Awareness
Zeta Tau Alpha hopes to raise more than $20,000 in October through events
sponsored in recognition of National Breast Cancer Awareness month.
The sisters of ZTA raised more than $14,000 last year for the Susan G.
Komen [Breast Cancer] foundation and have been running similar programs
since the early ‘90s, according to senior Kelley Moyers, ZTA president.
"The events always had huge support from both the Harrisonburg and
JMU community," Moyers said. "It’s a problem that affects
a lot of people. Many people, even men, are touched in one way or another
by breast cancer."
ZTA will start their awareness month with an a cappella concert tonight
at 8 p.m. in the College Center Grand Ballroom. The concert also will
feature performances by New and Improv’d and the JMU Breakdance Club.
Another feature event of the month is the Susan G. Komen 5K Run/Walk
on Saturday. "We usually have a good turnout," Moyers said.
"Many clubs come out to participate. We even have a group of runners
that travel from around the country to run in our races. Since the race
is on Parent’s Weekend, everyone’s parents are encouraged to
come out and participate."
This year, ZTA will be adding two new events to the lineup — a karaoke
night and a male auction.
"This really means a lot to me because breast cancer has touched
my family a few times," said freshman Christina Schoifano, a ZTA
pledge. "I’m just happy to be able to hand out and sell T-shirts
to raise money to support the foundation."
Junior Kaitlyn Hackett, breast cancer awareness co-chair, said, "About
10 years ago, one in 11 women were diagnosed with breast cancer. Thanks
to scientific advancements and detection methods, that figure has dropped
down to one in eight."
The sorority enlists help from organizations such as the University Health
Center to help get the word out. "Our main goal is to spread awareness,"
said junior Katie Miller, ZTA breast cancer awareness co-chair.
For a list of events, visit the JMU Web site "Notes for Students"
section.
"We want to thank everyone for coming out and showing support," Hackett said. "With enough support, we will be able to eventually find a cure."
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