Providence, RI -- Providence College recently hosted its third annual Relay for Life, an event designed to raise money for American Cancer Society research and programs.  Nearly 70 teams of 650 students participated at the event, which was held at the Peterson Recreation Center on campus.

Initiated by Janna Loureiro of the class of 2007, the first Relay for Life was held at Providence College during the 2004 academic year and raised $33,000.  This year's Relay for Life raised $94,450, exceeding the 2005 total of $52,000. 
 
The night included entertainment provided by various student groups, as well as a limbo contest, a tug-of-war, and a yoga class.  There was also a Remembrance Luminaria Ceremony, which featured a performance from the College's liturgical choir and a speech from a Providence College student who shared her story of her battle with cancer.

Liz Serio, a member of the Providence College class of 2007 and vice president of the College's chapter of Colleges Against Cancer, has participated all three years as a member and captain of the "Think Pink" team. Serio's highlight of the Relay was the Opening Lap, where cancer survivors from PC and the community walk the first lap together.

"It is important for college students to realize that they can make a difference in this world too, and take responsibility for creating change," said Serio.

(Information for this release was taken with permission from a story that appeared in The Cowl on April 6, 2006 by Megan Comerford.)