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News Release

April 03, 2006

Students Raise $55,000 for Canadian Cancer Society

University of Guelph students raised $55,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society during this weekend’s Relay for Life, more than any other university or college to date.

“We set a goal of $40,000 when we were expecting 40 teams,” said Elizabeth Holmes, a U of G student and chair of the event. “To think that we raised $55,000 with the equivalent of 30 teams is amazing. I have never been so proud to call myself a Gryphon.”

Relay for Life is a fundraising initiative that takes place across Canada and the United States at various times throughout the year. On April 1, 300 U of G members participated in the 12-hour relay at Alumni Stadium on campus. Highlights from Relay for Life included a survivor-led victory lap for cancer survivors and their families, and a candlelight ceremony to honour or remember loved ones who have battled cancer.

“U of G is the top fundraising school for this year,” said Laura Owen, senior fundraising co-ordinator for the Canadian Cancer Society. “We are extremely proud of the University of Guelph. The money coming in will be put to very good use.” Holmes added that online pledges are being accepted until April 9.

Thirty-six teams participated in the event, including U of G staff teams from Alumni Affairs and Development and from the Child Care and Learning Centre.