Lehigh Students Raise $19K for Cancer Society in One Night

Craig Connolly stood before a room full of students and staff to share what he calls his "belated birthday gift": a Stage 4 cancer diagnosis four days after turning 30. Now one year and three months cancer-free, he headlined Lehigh University's Relay for Life event that raised $19,079.79 for the American Cancer Society.

Madison Hilman and Morgan Paul, both juniors at Lehigh, spent eight months organizing the rock 'n' roll themed fundraiser in Grace Hall. The co-presidents of Lehigh Colleges Against Cancer watched their vision come to life as attendees played Dance Dance Revolution, sang karaoke, and danced to performances by campus groups including the Marching 97 and cheer team.

The event holds deep personal meaning for organizers like Paul, whose grandmother died from pancreatic cancer. "Cancer affects everyone in some way or another," she said, explaining why she joined the organization during her first year at Lehigh.

Students from sororities, fraternities, and other campus organizations staffed tables throughout the night. Zeta Tau Alpha members promoted their Think Pink philanthropy supporting breast cancer research, with member Abigail Ryvkin noting they wanted to help fight "one of those roaches of a disease that affects so many lives."

The night began with participants walking laps around Grace Hall to symbolize their commitment to fighting cancer. Between performances by campus singing groups and dance teams, attendees enjoyed entertainment from a magician and balloon artist while snacking on items from sponsors like Poppi probiotic soda and Saint James Organic Tea.

The Ripple Effect

Every dollar raised goes directly to the American Cancer Society, funding research and supporting patients navigating treatment. While the organization once raised over $100,000 in 2019, the pandemic disrupted community momentum, but events like this are rebuilding that spirit of collective action.

The fundraising continued after the event ended, with participants heading to F&A Grog House where 10% of dining proceeds added to the night's total. Through sponsorships, partnerships with Greek organizations, and individual donations, the event fell short of its $25,000 goal but demonstrated what happens when a community rallies around a cause.

Connolly's message to the crowd captured the evening's spirit perfectly: "Life won't stop if you have cancer. It keeps going."