By Ana Perez
Cal Poly Pomona hosted Matt’s Run, an annual 5K run/walk that raises money for student scholarships and celebrates the life of Matthew Myers, who died on campus 11 years ago in a vehicular collision.
Approximately 500 registered participants attended the annual fundraiser.
The two-hour long event was filled with participants sporting superhero costumes to celebrate everyday heroes. The best dressed were recognized and received prizes.
The participants were greeted at the finish line- located in front of the W.K Kellogg Arabian Horse center where the collision occurred- by the Broncettes, the Bronco Pep Band, Billy Bronco and complimentary hot dogs.
Since 2006, the Matthew Myers Memorial Scholarship Fund has awarded 89 scholarships to students who embody the qualities of Matthew Myers.
“Our son was going to do something in life,” said Kevin Myers, father of Matthew. “He was going to give back to the community.”
According to Kevin Myers, it is “rare” to see a family who has gone through a tragedy such as theirs and turn it into something “wonderful.” The event is about “giving back to the people.”
“In our society, these events serve a wonderful purpose because it gives us a chance to think about people other than ourselves,” stated Kevin Myers.
The Myers’ look forward to the annual event each year. It is the first time the family meets the scholarship recipients.
Last year, the run raised more than $10,000 for scholarships.
The event draws many members of the community to participate in the event.
According to special events assistant Kelly Pina, there were over 150 volunteers who contributed to the run.
For 21-year-old Jorge Centeno, the 5K is an annual tradition. Centeno participates in the 5K run/walk with the Kellogg Honors College. Despite this being a tradition with the college, Centeno encourages those he knows to take part in the event.
However, for 25-year-old Cydnee Serrano, a two-time scholarship recipient, this year’s 5K hit especially close to home. After not only losing her father, but two of her closest friends, she could further empathize with the Myers family’s loss.
After reaching out to the Myers family, Serrano received not only emotional support, but a second memorial scholarship.
“It’s not only honoring his memory, but bringing people together, keeping people healthy and giving back,” Serrano said.
Ana Perez / The Poly Post
Matthew Klein, this year’s winner
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