July 13, 2021
Global Campus raises scholarship funds with Bill Snyder Highway race partnership
K-State Online partnered with the 2021 Bill Snyder Highway Half and 5K races to support scholarships for online students, with more than 40 runners participating and more than 70 inquiring about online programs as a result of the partnership.
Participants who registered with the code "WILDCAT" saw a portion of their entry fee come back to Global Campus to use for student scholarships. The partnership also allowed runners to compete virtually instead of running the in-person races, which allowed more participation in the event than ever before.
"This opportunity was an exciting way for us to engage with our group of online alumni, many of whom are scattered all across the country," said Global Campus Dean Karen Pedersen. "The need for scholarships among our online learners continues to be pressing, so the funds and interest generated from this partnership were a win-win for all involved."
The races, held for the seventh straight year, were run on May 22, with around 1,400 runners participating between the in-person and virtual races. The event is coordinated by local retailer Manhattan Running Company.
"This race is always my favorite race of the year," said Ben Sigle, co-owner of Manhattan Running Company. "I fully anticipate our numbers getting back to normal and being closer to 2,000 participants next year."
Global Campus and Manhattan Running Company have agreed to continue the partnership for the 2022 races next May.
More information on the 2022 half marathon and 5K races will be made available as the dates get closer. For other opportunities to engage with Global Campus, visit global.k-state.edu/students/alumni.