WELLESLEY HILLS (October 1, 2013) – On a beautiful Sunday morning on September 29th, more than 160 runners, walkers, and families participated in a 5K race/walk fundraiser at MassBay Community College.
Event organizers estimate $6,500 was raised on behalf of the Krystle Campbell Scholarship Fund, which was established this year by the MassBay Foundation Board. The Fund honors Krystle Campbell, a MassBay graduate who lost her life at the Boston Marathon finish line at the age of 29.
“The Board felt strongly that we wanted to honor Krystle’s memory by establishing a fund that will benefit future students who are just like her,” explained Foundation Board Chair Michelle Drolet. “Krystle was at MassBay to work hard, strengthen her skills, get a good job, and improve her life. We believe there is no better way to honor Krystle than to provide financial support to future MassBay students who are trying to do the same thing Krystle did.”
Krystle Campbell earned an Associate Degree in Business Administration from MassBay in 2005, and then transferred her credits to UMass-Boston to pursue a Bachelor’s degree. The Scholarship will go to a deserving MassBay business student who submits an essay about resiliency, making a difference, generosity of spirit, or overcoming obstacles to achieve a goal.
“I know that Krystle would be pleased with what MassBay is doing for future students,” said Tyera Godfrey, who grew up in Medford with Krystle and attended the event. “Everyone’s attitude was so positive and encouraging – it was like Krystle was walking with us. Doing this walk was very therapeutic and gave me some closure, even though I have to face the fact that she’s not coming back.”
“It was a meaningful, successful event,” said Mary Shia, Assistant Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Alumni Relations. “We appreciate the support of the Town of Wellesley, Wellesley PD, our sponsors, and everyone who came out to contribute to this great cause. Uniting the community is what we do at MassBay, and we were very proud to honor Krystle and her family in this way.”
To donate to the Krystle Campbell Scholarship Fund and to view a photo gallery from the event, visit www.massbay.edu/scholarships. For more information, please call 781-239-3125.
MassBay awards associate degrees and certificates in over 70 academic programs in a wide range of career-driven subjects ranging from accounting and automotive technology to forensic DNA science and early childhood education. The College’s facilities in Wellesley Hills, Framingham and Ashland house day, evening and weekend classes that meet the needs of degree-seeking students and career minded life-long learners. Online options provide convenience and allow faculty to facilitate the learning process. Since its founding in 1961, MassBay has been accredited by several governing bodies and strives to meet the needs of the diverse local communities it serves.