Relay For Life Is a Virtual Success

Relay For Life is one of the biggest fundraising events for the American Cancer Society, one that Adelphi has participated in every April for over eight years. Coordinated by the Center for Student Involvement, Relay For Life traditionally took place in the Center for Recreation and Sports and was a 12-hour fundraiser that went from 3:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. The event included survivor and caregiver speakers, a luminaria ceremony to honor all those who have battled cancer, interactive fun activities, food, performances and the Adelphi community coming together for a common cause.

Due to this year’s current pandemic, holding an in-person event was out of the question, said Arianna Livreri, senior assistant director of the Center for Student Involvement, but so was canceling or postponing. “Relay For Life is about educating the community and spreading awareness,” she said. “We honor those who we’ve lost, survivors and those who are battling cancer. Cancer is destroying lives, and everyone has been touched by cancer in some way, shape or form.”

This year’s event was less about fundraising and more about “getting our students together in a community and providing a sense of belonging,” she said.

The Relay For Life committee worked extremely hard to transform the physical event into a virtual experience, Livreri added. “In such a small time frame, I was able to see [the committee] engage with students, develop different challenges and work with the American Cancer Society during the process.”

On April 17, 42 students, staff and faculty engaged in various virtual activities, such as social media challenges, a Zumba class, and conversations about those battling cancer, survivors, and loved ones who were lost. Thanks to the committee’s commitment to the cause and those who participated, Adelphi successfully raised more than $17,000 for the American Cancer Society.