Relay For Life at FSU makes Big Strides in Fundraising Ahead of Main Event

Relay For Life at FSU is supporting the fight against cancer and getting ready for its annual fundraising event. The student organization raised more than $34,000 in one day for cancer research and patient support, in partnership with the American Cancer Society (ACS), through recent events ahead of the fundraiser on April 11.  

“Relay For Life shows the power of students coming together for something bigger than themselves and creating a community of hope and support for those affected by cancer,” said Kelsey Strigler, executive director of Relay For Life at FSU. “As executive director, it’s inspiring to see our community unite to fundraise, spread awareness and support the mission of the American Cancer Society until there is a cure.” 

The organization held several events during Giving Tuesday 2025, when more than 35 registered student organizations and 145 individuals fundraised to achieve this milestone. The day started with a giving event on Landis Green which included a power hour of fundraising, pieing and student performances. RFL at FSU’s goal was to raise $20,000, a mark that they exceeded by $14,000, a 290% increase from the 2024 Giving Tuesday event. 

After placing third nationally during Fall Fundraising Week, Relay For Life at FSU qualified as a top college to participate in the Fall Fumble, an exclusive bracket challenge featuring the country’s top 32 fundraising universities. By securing first place in this final competition, the organization was officially named “College Champion” by the ACS. 

“The Relay For Life student leaders have come into this year with a passion and drive that exceeds all expectations,” said Stormy McGivern, director of the FSU Office of Student Organizations and Involvement. “Their dedication to raising awareness about and fundraising for the American Cancer Society directly supports countless members of our FSU community who have been directly impacted by cancer. We’re thrilled to see RFL continue to expand their campus and community partnerships. Their success in the Fall Fumble is a testament to the work they’ve put in so far. We look forward to seeing the culmination of their year at Relay on April 11!”

In the evening, Relay For Life at FSU hosted a survivor and caregiver dinner sponsored by the FSU College of Social Work. The student organization invited cancer survivors from around Leon County to honor them and their journey through cancer. The dinner was held on campus and concluded with a luminaria ceremony to remember those lost to cancer, honor those who have fought the disease and support those whose fight continues. Three survivors spoke at the ceremony, including FSU softball coach Lonni Alameda.  At the end of the ceremony, RFL at FSU revealed the fundraising total for the day. 

“These funds go toward patient services such as free rides to treatment, free lodging at ACS’ many Hope Lodges for cancer patients while they undergo treatment, as well as grants for medical facilities and programs,” said Melissa Schaldenbrand, senior development manager at the American Cancer Society. “We are so grateful to Dean Springer for approving the sponsorship request. The support from the College of Social Work ensured the funds raised on Giving Tuesday went toward assisting cancer patients and those who care for them.” 

This year’s Relay For Life at FSU signature 12-hour celebration will begin at noon on Saturday, April 11 in the FSU Student Union Ballrooms. Community members are encouraged to participate in person and online. For more information, visit the FSU Relay For Life website. 

About Relay For Life at Florida State University 

Relay For Life at Florida State University is a registered student organization that aims to educate FSU’s campus about the American Cancer Society’s mission and programs. Relay For Life at FSU strives to build a community of college students in participating in a national, regional and local cancer prevention effort to honor, support and recognize those individuals within our campus community who have directly or indirectly suffered from this disease.