Arkansas State University-Mountain Home Alumni Association to Host Candy Cane 5k Fundraiser
The Arkansas State University-Mountain Home (ASUMH) Alumni Association will sponsor the third Candy Cane 5k on Friday, November 24, 2023, at 6 p.m. at Keller Fountain on the ASUMH campus. Proceeds will benefit students through the ASUMH Alumni Association scholarship fund.
“The Candy Cane 5k fundraiser is the one time you can see the amazing Christmas light display at ASUMH on foot,” said Allen Moore, ASUMH Alumni Association Vice President and Race Coordinator. “You can choose the 1.5 mile walk around campus or the competitive 5K race that will be handled by professional race organizer Paul Gigliotti.”
The Alumni Association rebranded the fundraiser this year with the help of Paul Gigliotti of Pirate Perry Events. With Gigliotti’s participation, this is the first year that the race will be managed by a professional organizer.
“I'm pretty involved in our local running scene. My favorite races to be part of, [whether] I'm running the show or running the race, are the unique ones,” said Giglotti. “This particular 5K is quite unique and offers participants something truly special. This is an overall great experience for locals and visitors alike.”
Runners, walkers, and virtual runners—who can support the fundraiser without running the race—are welcomed. Registration fees include $30 for the 5k competitive run, $20 for the 1.5 mile walk, and $20 for virtual runners. 5k and walk participants will receive a medal, t-shirt, and hot cocoa.
“This is a great way to get some steps in and support book scholarships for students at ASUMH,” said Moore.
Since the first race in 2021, the ASUMH Alumni Association has raised and awarded approximately $5,000 in book scholarships for ASUMH students.
"The Candy Cane 5K enables the ASUMH Alumni Association to give scholarships to students in need. Investing in our students is investing in the future of our community,” said Brandon Barnes, ASUMH Alumni Association President. “Coming from an alumnus, these events and scholarships are stepping stones for so many local students."
Volunteers are needed to help make this fundraiser a success.
“We look forward to working with other ASUMH Alumni on this festive project,” said Adrienne Blackwell, ASUMH Alumni Association Volunteer Coordinator. “We need race spotters, medal organizers, and registration volunteers. We want all of our alumni and friends to become part of this magical tradition.”
To volunteer with the race, contact ASUMH Director of Development Mollie Morgan at 508-6191 or mmorgan@asumh.edu.
All participants and volunteers must arrive before 5:30 p.m. in order to park prior to the Coulter Celebration of Lights dedication ceremony. Roads on campus will then be closed until the completion of the event to ensure the safety of runners and walkers.
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Contact: Mollie Morgan
870-508-6191
