Relay For Life returns to MTSU, connecting community, raising funds in fight against cancer

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Students, faculty and community members are invited to take steps toward a cancer-free future as the Relay For Life fundraiser returns to the Middle Tennessee State University campus.

Hosted in partnership with the American Cancer Society, the annual event will take place from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 27, inside the Campus Recreation Center. The event is part of a global movement that raises funds and awareness for cancer research, patient support and prevention efforts.

Attendees can enjoy activities, entertainment and fundraising opportunities, with a goal of raising $15,000. Relay For Life is open to the public, but registration is required and can be completed online or at the event. Registration is $5, benefiting the American Cancer Society, while survivors and children under 18 may participate for free. For more information or to register, visit relayforlife.org/mtsu.

From left, Denise Bond, Flora McCullough, Cameron Stevens and Dianna Rust carry the Relay For Life “Ending Cancer” banner across the Campus Recreation Center gym floor during the American Cancer Society event Friday, March 28, 2025, on the Middle Tennessee State University campus in Murfreesboro, Tenn. This year’s event will be held Friday, March 27, at the Rec Center. (MTSU file photo by James Cessna)

Since its founding in 1985, Relay For Life has brought communities together around the world to honor cancer survivors, to remember those lost, and take action to save lives. The event centers on a symbolic walk, where participants take turns circling a track lined with luminaria bags, each one representing a life touched by cancer.

The evening will begin with a Survivors Lap, where cancer survivors are invited to walk the track and be recognized by the community. Caregivers will then join in a second lap to honor the support systems that play a critical role in every cancer journey. Organizers emphasize celebrating both groups, with survivors who register receiving a commemorative T-shirt.

director of prior learning assessment and an associate professor in MTSU’s Department of University Studies — Dr. Dianna Rust

“This is a student-led event that provides students with real-world leadership, event planning, fundraising and public speaking experiences,” said Dianna Rust, a University Studies professor and event organizer. “Our students have a passion for helping people and have a heart for giving back to those impacted by cancer.”

Organizers say the event is family-friendly and encourage the campus community to attend. One of the most meaningful moments of the night will take place after dark during the luminaria ceremony, where decorated bags are illuminated in memory of loved ones and in support of those still fighting.

Rust said her personal connection to the cause is what drives her involvement.

“I walk each year in memory of my 4-year-old niece, who we lost to leukemia, and my mom, who we lost in 2015 to pancreatic cancer,” she said. “I wanted to be involved in a nonprofit that would allow me to make an impact on this disease.”

A luminaria bag reading “In loving memory of Grandmama, always loved” is displayed during the American Cancer Society Relay For Life event held March 28, 2025, at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tenn. The decorated bags are part of the luminaria ceremony, honoring loved ones affected by cancer. This year’s event will be held Friday, March 27, at the Rec Center. (MTSU file photo by James Cessna)

The event also connects students and the community with additional ways to get involved. A Gift of Life bone marrow donation table will be available both at Relay For Life and during a separate event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, outside the Paul W. Martin Sr. Honors Building. The national nonprofit works to match donors with patients battling leukemia and other blood cancers.

The Relay for Life event is supported by campus partners, including MTSU Engage, the Department of Health and Human Performance, the College of Liberal Arts, MT Dining and University College, along with student organizers and service-learning participants.

— Karli Sutton (Karli.Sutton@mtsu.edu)