Washington Theological Union’s
Cherry Blossom Challenge
Raises over $24,000!

 

Contact:  Will Heaton
Communications Director
Washington Theological Union
202-541-5235
pr@wtu.edu

 

DC – Washington Theological Union (WTU) exceeded its $10,000 goal for the Cherry Blossom Challenge, raising more than twice the goal.  Students, faculty members, staff and alumni all contributed, showing overwhelming support for WTU and its mission.  Numerous other donors including friends, relatives and community leaders also participated, enabling the school to set a high mark for its inaugural Cherry Blossom Challenge.
            Staff members Fr. Gene Hemrick and Will Heaton, both avid runners, ran the Cherry Blossom Ten Miler in Washington DC on April 6th despite cold weather and heavy rains.  Will Heaton said, “I am glad I could support WTU and create new excitement within the WTU community using my love of running.  This is the first time I ran for a cause so I am glad it was WTU.”
            Fr. Hemrick praised WTU saying, “This is a wonderful institution and I am happy I could help assist the WTU mission by running this race and gathering support from my friends.  I have always enjoyed running the Cherry Blossom Ten Miler, but I am even more encouraged that my efforts drew the support of so many people within the WTU community.”

A special thanks to Jim and Kelly Donio of Hammonton, NJ for their challenge gift.  As soon as it was announced that that they would give $10,000 if the WTU community raised $10,000 for the run, the number of gifts quickly accelerated to reach the goal!  Both of them have been long time supporters of WTU and their latest generosity is a wonderful example of the continued support WTU receives from the larger community.