Three Southampton High School track stars — Dreanne Joseph, Reece Nugent and Griffin Wei — raised $8,000 after teaming up to launch Mariners Run for Unity, a virtual fundraising event, held July 5.
The money raised through the initiative will be used to fund a scholarship that will be awarded to a graduating senior of color, starting in 2021. The scholarship awardee will be selected by the Mariners Run for Unity Committee, made up of the three seniors, coach Eddie Arnold and Nature Richard.
The students created the fundraiser in an effort to take action against racism.
“Our initiative has been an amazing success,” said Nugent. “We got lots of feedback from people who donated and participated.”
The trio initially aimed to raise $5,000, but were thrilled to exceed their goal. They hope to continue their mission and raise additional funds for the scholarship in the future.
“Our hope is that this becomes a foundation where the scholarship fund becomes an annual award,” said Nugent.
To participate in the virtual event, participants are asked to run 2.28 miles and provide a suggested donation of $25 via the committee’s website, www.marinersrunforunity.com.
Photo captions:
1: Southampton High School students Dreanne Joseph, Reece Nugent and Griffin Wei ran 2.28 miles along with fellow cross-country team members and their coach, Eddie Arnold, as part of their virtual fundraising event.
2: Southampton High School students (from left) Griffin Wei, Dreanne Joseph and Reece Nugent raised $8,000 through a virtual run fundraiser on July 5.
Photos courtesy of the Southampton Union Free School District
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