by Kelly Lee | Staff Writer

Lambda Chi Alpha launched their first philanthropic project of the year Saturday.

Lambda Chi is an active fraternity on campus composed of brothers who are motivated to make a difference in their community. 

External Vice President and Head of Philanthropy Jorge Lopez spearheaded the organization and execution of the Freedom Run 5k which aligns with Mission 22 and benefits veterans in America healing from traumatic injuries. The charitable event was promoted on Lambda Chi’s Instagram, @astatelambdachi, and was also announced on Jonesboro’s local KJNB. 

This year’s Freedom Run 5k has been the first since 2019 due to circumstances regarding the pandemic. The run was first scheduled for Jan. 30 but was postponed due to rainy weather in Jonesboro. However, this past weekend provided great weather for students, faculty and citizens to salute America’s heroes. 

In preparation for the event, Lopez said, “I’m really excited to see the turnout. We’ve been given a lot of support from the community, and we cannot wait to put on more events like this one.” 

The 5k kicked off at the ROTC building on A-State’s campus where runners were greeted with a warm welcome from the Lambda Chi members. Students from many different A-State organizations were in attendance to support Lambda Chi on their mission of serving their community. 

At the finish line, first, second and third place trophies were awarded to members of Arkansas State’s ROTC program. Delta Zeta was awarded the Biggest Heart Award for having the most participants and making the most donations. Alpha Omicron Pi was also named Social Media Winner for their active promotion of Lambda Chi’s philanthropy on social media platforms.

Joseph DaVault, a member of Lambda Chi, was a winner within the fraternity and was named Fastest Brother. Photos of the victors and their awards can be viewed on Lambda Chi’s Instagram page.

At the conclusion of the run, Lopez expressed that he was hopeful that another run would be held in 2022, but said, “I’m not one hundred percent sure if we will have the Freedom Run 5k in 2022. We change philanthropy chairs every year, so we will have to see what they do.” 

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