The first annual Panhellenic Awards Ceremony for the appreciation of Greek women was held on Tuesday, April 25 in the Boyd Dining Center. The dessert banquet was sponsored by Virginia Wesleyan’s Panhellenic Council led by President Jacqui Price, Vice President Teresa Alutto and Secretary Gina Frazier. Molly McClurg spoke on behalf of Lina Cottingham, campus Greek advisor, through a letter. Cottingham said, "You (sorority women) are a wonderful example to all of our students." Superlative awards and gift pens were given to each graduating woman, presented by a representative from each organization.Panhellenic President Jacqui Price concluded the program by saying, "Always set your goals and aim high."

"I was really impressed with the turnout and excited to see the three sororities coming together as one," said Price. Secretary Gina Frazier said she agreed with Price regarding the success of the event. "It is excellent to get all Greek women to come together celebrating the positivity in each other."
The following awards were given to sisters in each sorority:

Scholarship Award
Teresa Alutto-AGA
Emily McLaughlin-GGG
Jessica Battistella-GGG

Best New Sister
Gina Frazier-GGG
Lakisha Steele-GGG
Victoria Scavo-AGA

Sister of the Year
Melissa Garrett-GGG
Julie Ecker-AGA
Sharon Balabanis-GGG

Best Greek Event
IGG’s Dating Game

Best Philanthropic Event
GGG’s Golf Tournament for Robbie Page Memorial

Chapter Advisors
GGG’s Lina Cottingham
GGG’s Natalie Averette
ASA’s Julie Wylie

Outstanding Greek Woman
Valerie Bernardo-AGA
Cindy Dixon-GGG
Barbara Pacifico-GGG

The sixth annual VWC Casey Run, an event originated because of a drunk driving accident, will be held at Foster Field on April 29 at 9 a.m. Dan Casey was an active member of the VWC campus, as well as an athlete, who played lacrosse. He was well known at Wesleyan which made it even harder when the school was informed of his death in November of 1993. Casey was riding with a friend when the car swerved off of the road and hit a tree, causing death to Casey and injury to his friend. The accident happened on Shore Drive, both were intoxicated and neither were wearing seatbelts.

Because of the impact on the students, faculty and staff, the Casey Run was originated, not only help cope, but also to help prevent bad choices made by students under the influence. "The accident really did effect the campus," said Linda Tisdale. "It was the first time our school had to deal with a death." Tisdale initially originated the run in the spring of ’94 until Mike Strock, head athletic trainer and advisor of Student Athlete Mentors, took over in 1995. "The purpose of the Casey Run is to increase alcohol awareness and the education of preventive measures," said Strock.

The run brings in approximately 30-35 runners every year. The attendance has dwindled over the past few years, and those involved believe it is because students and members of the community do not remember, or never knew Casey’s story. "It can hit close to home," said Tisdale, "and when it does, especially on a small campus and on a sports team, it hits hard." The entire lacrosse team will run as a team this Saturday in memory of a former player. In addition, Casey’s parents drive down from Massachusetts on occasion to support its cause. It is important to remember Casey’s story, so that accidents like his can be prevented. By attending this run, one can help keep the memory of Casey alive, as well as support alcohol abuse education.