'Tech Goes Pink' to raise cancer awareness
For the third consecutive year, Tennessee Tech University is bringing together the campus and community to raise cancer awareness through "Tech Goes Pink."
Held in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and organized by Tech's Office of Intercultural Affairs, the initiative seeks to honor cancer survivors and memorialize those lost to the disease.
Tech's programming begins with the Pink Out Game on Saturday, Oct. 17, when the Golden Eagle football team faces Eastern Kentucky. The event will recognize survivors and highlight cancer's impact on individuals and families. Local survivors will lead the team through the Golden Eagle Walk before kickoff, and survivors will be honored during the game. Free commemorative t-shirts will be distributed, and there will be a Pink Out tailgate before the start of the game.
The initiative continues on Oct. 22 with activities on the main quad near Derryberry Hall. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., an exhibition will offer information, interactive activities, giveaways and more. A banner will also be available for visitors to write words of encouragement for those facing cancer.
At 5:30 p.m., the Tech Goes Pink walk will begin. Luminaries will be decorated and placed around the quad in memory of those lost to cancer. Survivors will share their stories, and food will be provided through the sponsorship of Tech's Auxiliary Services, along with Cookeville Regional Medical Center, the Cookeville Regional Medical Center Charitable Foundation and Academy Sports + Outdoors.
"Cancer affects everyone. Tech Goes Pink is about battling this disease through a true college-town collaboration," said Charria Campbell, director of Intercultural Affairs at Tech. "From our student ambassadors and the many departments helping on campus to trusted community partners, this event seeks to educate, raise awareness and provide resources for those battling cancer, the caregivers supporting them and those who have lost a loved one to the disease."
Organizers hope the event will continue to grow as a Tennessee Tech tradition that connects the university and community while providing education, awareness and support.
Individuals interested in future partnership opportunities with Tech Goes Pink can contact Charria Campbell at cycampbell@tntech.edu.