Run for Ryan Scheduled for Saturday
The seventh annual Run for Ryan, a campus-wide 5K that raises money for a scholarship fund that benefits student veterans in need of financial assistance, will be held Saturday, April 16, at 9:30 a.m. on Brottier Commons.
The Run for Ryan honors the life of Marine Sergeant Ryan H. Lane of Castle Shannon, who was killed in action in 2009 in Afghanistan. Former Duquesne students Army 1st Lieutenant Joseph Vitti and Marine 1st Lieutenant Chris Cavanaugh heard of Lane’s sacrifice and developed the 5K event to ensure Lane would be remembered. The first run took place in April 2010 and has since raised more than $50,000 to support veterans continuing their education.
“Each year, the Run for Ryan attracts more participants,” said Don Accamando, director of the Office of Military and Veteran Students. “Every contribution makes an impact, and Ryan’s heroic legacy is passed on to the recipient of the scholarship that bears his name.”
A portion of the proceeds from this year’s event will be donated to help purchase a service dog from Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, Inc. for a local veteran.
Faculty, staff and students and the greater Pittsburgh community are invited to run or walk to honor Lane and raise money for two worthy causes. Register now or on race day at the starting line. Credit or debit cards and checks are accepted.
The Run for Ryan is facilitated by ROTC cadets and midshipmen and Duquesne students.