Originally published October 10, 2014

October 5, 2014: The third-annual 5K Race for Education, hosted by the English Undergraduate Organization (a student organization within the Department of English), brought together 100+ Ohio State faculty, staff, students, and community members in support of local non-profit I Know I Can.

A team of 15 volunteers arrived at Fred Beekman Park on west campus at 8AM on Sunday to set up the registration table, speakers, and race clock; chalk the race path; and arrange breakfast treats provided by the German Village First Watch. Race participants began arriving at 9AM and continued to fill the pavilion until the 10AM start time.

5K Director Kelsy Hernandez oversaw the set up and direction of race events that morning. “Race-day tasks went from zero to sixty. Volunteers were assigned to their jobs prior to participant arrival, so they knew their positions well. I felt confident that I need only check in with each station to make sure everything was running smoothly.”

Hernandez was elected 5K Director following the graduation of the previous director, Taylor Sawyer, who founded the race in fall 2011. “My role didn’t start until late summer,” said Hernandez, “but once fall neared, my committee took the reins. The committee consisted of students involved within EUGO, who helped plan, recruit, and gather sponsors for the race; they accomplished the leg work, especially taking it upon themselves to advertise the race during classes and speaking to professors.”

The race continues to serve annually as the organization’s tour de force. The 2013 race included 130+ participants from the Columbus and Cincinnati areas and raised some $1,600. This year, the race raised $1,100 for I Know I Can and was sponsored by the South Campus Gateway Barnes & Noble, who donated t-shirts and giveaway prizes for the event.

“There's no better feeling than helping those in need, and EUGO is such an aspirational organization that strives to do just that. I look forward to continuing the Race for Education in the years to come!" said first-year member Nicolette Faragalli.

For EUGO President Sydney Watsek, a junior English major, the race is a lasting tradition for EUGO. “The race has always been EUGO’s most involved service initiative; we love donating to I Know I Can. They make such a difference within the Columbus community, and it’s incredibly rewarding to be able to contribute to their cause. Beyond our donation goal, the race is simply a lot of fun for the English community. It’s a culmination of EUGO’s hard work, departmental generosity, and undergrad enthusiasm.”

To see pictures from the event, and to learn more about upcoming undergraduate events, please visit the EUGO website.