Mississippi State Online is hosting a virtual 5K run from May 20-24, 2023, to raise money for the Distance Makes a Difference scholarship fund, which supports online students who need financial assistance to complete their degrees.
Committee members Lily Hudson, Maddie Ludt, Anusha Rijal, and Mindy Wolfe from Mississippi State Online are actively working to raise scholarship funds for online students.
"This scholarship fund is specifically designed for our online students," said Mindy Wolfe, online coordinator and event coordinator. "We want to make sure that they have the same opportunities as our on-campus students and that financial obstacles don't get in the way of their academic goals."
Wolfe emphasized the importance of supporting online students, who often face unique challenges while pursuing their degrees.
"Online students have to balance their studies with work, family responsibilities, and other commitments," Hudson said. "We serve every student, so it's crucial that we provide them with the support they need to succeed."
The virtual 5K is open to everyone, including Mississippi State Online students and faculty. Participants can register for the event on the Mississippi State Online website for $25, and they have four days to run their 5K and record their final time.
Online Admissions & Enrollment Coordinator Lily Hudson emphasized the event's goal.
"We decided to host a virtual 5K because it allows all of our online students to participate with their families and supporters from across the country and the world," said Hudson. "It's a great way to bring our community together, even though we're all physically apart."
Participants can run or walk their 5K at any time during the four-day event, and in any location. All they need to do is record their time on a fitness tracker or running app, and then upload their results using a link on the registration page.
“We wanted to make the event as flexible as possible so that everyone can participate at their own pace and on their own schedule,” said Hudson. The virtual aspect of the event has also allowed MS State Online to partner with sponsors from across the country, who are supporting the scholarship fund and the 5K event.
Online Admissions & Enrollment Coordinator Anusha Rijal added insight to the many partnerships available to support the event.
“We're thrilled to have the support of companies like Coca Cola, Arepas, Clark Beverage Company, and BJ’s family pharmacy,” said Rijal. “Their contributions help us offset the costs of putting on the event so that all of the money raised can go towards scholarships.” She added that there are still sponsorship opportunities available for anyone who wants to support the cause.
“We're always looking for more sponsors who want to help make a difference in the lives of our online students,” she said. “Sponsors receive perks like having their logo on the website, and they can feel good knowing that they're helping students achieve their academic dreams.”
The virtual 5K will also include prizes for top finishers and fun categories like most spirit and biggest team. Everyone who registers will receive a T-shirt after the event.
Online Admissions & Enrollment Counselor Maddie Ludt expressed excitement for the potential turnout.
“We're really excited to see everyone come together to support our online students,” said Ludt. “This event is about more than just running or walking a 5K – it's about showing our Bulldog pride and making a difference in the lives of our community.”
The virtual 5K is a unique opportunity for anyone to support MS State Online and its mission to provide quality education to students, regardless of their location or financial situation. By participating in the event or becoming a sponsor, individuals can help make a difference in the lives of online students and help them achieve their academic goals.
Registration for the virtual 5K is open now, and anyone can sign up on the Mississippi State Online website. Join the Mississippi State Online community and help support online education by participating in this exciting event.
