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University of Puget Sound
For this edition of Almabase Spotlights featuring Liberal Arts Institutions, we shine the spotlight on the University of Puget Sound’s virtual 5K marathon initiative during their Virtual Homecoming and Family Weekend 2020.
💡An Idea to Host a Virtual Run to Drive Event Success
The University’s Office of Alumni and Parent Relations wanted to do something meaningful for their constituents to boost engagement at their two-day Virtual Homecoming and Family Weekend. Participants had a host of exciting events lined up for them, and one event that caught our fancy was the Tenth-Annual Logger 5K virtual run.
🏅The University’s Tenth-Annual Logger 5K
When we think about a traditional 5K run, the first thing that comes to our minds is people competing in a long-distance run outdoors. However, the Office, in collaboration with the Student Alumni Association, managed to transition a 5K run from a physical event into a virtual Zoom session (as seen below). Participants were encouraged to partake in the run by walking/jogging/running/skipping from the comfort of their home or neighborhood. The run featured footage of the University’s beautiful campus, giving participants an immersive virtual tour. Participants were also encouraged to wear maroon and white or green and gold (celebrating current school colors and prior ones), to show off their Logger spirit. Registrants were sent commemorative t-shirts and bibs, and were encouraged to share photos of them in their merchandise with the university.
The virtual run, among other exciting events, contributed to the weekender’s success with over 75% of registrants attending the event.
🌟Our Source of Inspiration
Haley Harshaw is the Assistant Director of Alumni and Parent Relations at the University of Puget Sound. She has been working with the Alumni Office at the University for over 5 years.
Outside work, Haley has an active interest in walking her dog, spending time with her family, crafting, and softball. She was also part of a collegiate team that was crowned the NCAA Division 3 National Champion in May 2012.
