Delaware Tech celebrates Patriot Day with 5K run
(Photo by S. Monroe)
Participants take off for the annual 5K Run, White and Blue.
By Sam Monroe
Delaware Technical Community College, Owens Campus, held its second annual 5K Run, White and Blue on Sept. 10 to benefit veterans and first responders.
This year, 311 people participated and raised a total of $10,000. Participants had the option to either walk a mile or run the 5K.
The event started with Dean of Student Affairs Dr. Melissa Rakes opening with the “Pledge of Allegiance” and the recognition of some of the veterans and first responders in attendance followed by a moment of silence to honor the victims of 9/11.
This year’s guest speaker was Delaware State Police Captain Rodney Layfield, who graduated from the college in 1993 with a Criminal Justice degree. In 2013, he received recognition as a Distinguished Alumni.
The “National Anthem” was sung by Miss Newark 2014 Taylor DuVall. DuVall is a Delaware Tech student on campus through the connected learning program with Wilmington University.
Dr. Rakes said the event came about when thinking of ways to support veterans and service members who attend Delaware Tech.
According to Victory Media Inc., Delaware Tech is in the top 15 percent for veteran-friendly schools. Victory Media Inc. is an agency who administers a survey to determine which colleges qualify as a military-friendly schools.
“All the money raised benefits our students who are veterans,” said Dr. Rakes.
Dr. Ileana Smith, vice president and Owens Campus director, walked the event. She was accompanied by her granddaughter and daughter-in-law.
“It’s a wonderful event to bring the community together for a great cause,” said Dr. Smith. “It makes me very proud by letting veterans know we appreciate what they’ve done for us and that we support them.”
Dr. Smith said the event is a great way give back to those who served and is touched by how many individuals came together.
Delaware National Guard member Karen Berry said this was the second year she and her husband have participated in the 5K run. She also said the course was well marked and easy to get around.
“My husband Mike is a State Trooper and our son is in the Guard with us and so we came to support a good event and are happy to contribute,” Berry said.
Berry said she was happy Delaware Tech is supporting the military and was also excited the event was open to first responders.
Once the 5k run and one-mile walk began, many children could be found engaging in activities such as face painting or doing pull-ups at the Delaware National Guard stand.
Volunteers helped with the family activities and others helped on the track by handing out water bottles throughout the course.
Communications student Adam Smith volunteered during the run. He was located at the halfway point. He said he likes volunteering and working with clubs even if he’s not a part of them.
“It’s always a good opportunity to help them,” said Smith.
Smith said having a diverse group of people coming together from the school and community is wonderful and not only for the event, but in remembrance of 9/11.
The event ended with dinner and announcing the winners for each category. This year’s first-place winner was Sussex Central sophomore Ben Campagnone.
For the full list of winners, visit Seashore Striders.