Students, alumni spearhead Breast Cancer Awareness events
Polk State College’s Honors Program and Student Government Associations (SGA) have partnered to host Breast Cancer Awareness events on both campuses and at the Polk State JD Alexander Center that will bring the community together for educational activities, resources, and support for those with breast cancer, who have survived breast cancer, or may know others suffering with breast cancer.
The events will take place Thursday, Oct. 25, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Lakeland Campus Student Mall; Monday, Oct. 29, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the Winter Haven Campus Lawn; and Wednesday, Oct. 31, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Polk State JD Alexander Center.
“This is a passion project for us,” said Mikka Mendoza, Winter Haven SGA Marketing Chair who is pursuing a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Supervision and Management with a concentration in Business Administration. “SGA not only cares about having fun, but also about hosting informative events on campus that will leave a lasting impact on students and everyone involved.”
Students and alumni identified the need for the events when Polk State’s Relay for Life merged with the City of Winter Haven’s Relay for Life event.
“We want to make sure that we are raising awareness and bringing resources to students right here on our campuses,” said Gonzalo Gutierrez, Honors Program Assistant who received a Polk State BAS in Supervision and Management with a concentration in Business Administration in May 2018.
The events will include giveaways; representatives from the American Heart Association, local health clinics, and student clubs; opportunities to hear the stories of breast cancer survivors; and resources for individuals who may be suffering from breast cancer or know someone who is diagnosed. There will also be a variety of activities, including rock painting.
The Lake Wales SGA recently held Breast Cancer Awareness Month events at the Polk State JD Alexander Center, where they built an “awareness wall” to spread messages of inspiration.
“Breast Cancer Awareness Month is the key to opening doors for pre-diagnosis for many. It is also a symbol of unity and hope among those who have fought and are still fighting,” Lake Wales SGA Advisor Tykiela Hall said.
SGA gave students informational fliers about breast cancer and encouraged them to participate in activities, including the awareness wall and decorating the center in honor of those affected by breast cancer.
“A lot of students know someone who has breast cancer, but they’re not sure how to help or what to say,” explained Natasha Mohamed, who received a Polk State BAS in Supervision and Management and serves as the Student Activities and Leadership Office (SALO) Manager on the Winter Haven Campus. “These events will provide the resources they need and rally support for everyone affected by breast cancer.”