Ramapo students “painted the campus purple” for Relay for Life on Thursday, bringing together the student body to lend a hand in the fight against cancer. The event was cosponsored by the College Programming Board and Relay for Life.
“Paint the Campus Purple” consisted of tie-dying shirts, painting collection jars, and writing tributes to loved ones. Everything made during the event will be used to decorate Relay for Life, and the tributes will be displayed on a slideshow.
All of the students who participated in “Paint the Campus Purple” were able to hold up a sign that read “Keep Calm and Relay On” and stand next to Fledge to get a picture taken. These pictures will be displayed as tributes during the slideshow. Many people who contributed wrote, “I relay for my…” and wrote who they have lost to cancer, who they support in surviving cancer, or the names of those who are still fighting.
“Cancer runs in my family, so I do my best to support events like Relay for Life,” said junior Melanie Odatalla.
“Paint the Campus Purple” is the kickoff event to Relay for Life, and is put on to bring awareness to the annual relay event.
According to the American Cancer Society, “The American Cancer Society Relay for Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease.”
Ramapo College’s participation in the annual Relay for Life drive will take place on April 4 and 5 in the Bradley Center. Through events like this, students can raise awareness and hope for a big turnout in April.
“This kickoff event is to get people hyped to raise money for cancer research,” said junior Elle Alfaro. “Cancer sucks and you can be sad and mad, but you don’t have to be.”
This year’s premise for all the Relay events is game board themed.
In regards to the theme, junior Alyssa Cullere said it is “trying to make the best out of the worst situations.”
“Paint the Campus Purple” is a great way to achieve campus unity and get in the spirit for Relay. Through events like this, students can get on the same page to support each other in the fight against cancer, and get excited for the rewarding experience that is Relay for Life.
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jrinzuel@ramapo.edu
