SAAC Participates In Breast Cancer Walk

RIVERDALE, N.Y. - Manhattan College student-athletes participated in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk last Sunday.

Making Strides is an initiative overseen by the American Cancer Society. For more than two decades, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer has united communities in the fight against this deadly disease and funded breakthrough research, 24/7 support for breast cancer patients, and access to lifesaving screenings. Today, Making Strides is the largest network of breast cancer events nationwide. More information on the organization and ways to get involved can be found HERE.

SAAC President Kaya Simpson, a track and field team member, was the driving force behind over 200 student-athletes taking part in the event.

"Every year SAAC makes an effort to promote the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk," said Simpson when asked how the event came together. "We all see it as a very important event, one of our biggest events of the fall semester, that brings together all student-athletes to advocate for a great cause."

This is Simpson's second year working to organize turnout for the event, and he has taken great pride in working with his fellow student-athletes to help make a difference in the community.

"This is now my second year organizing and leading such a passionate group of student-athletes that want to support this foundation. The feeling is unreal. A lot of behind-the-scenes work goes into this massive event in Central Park. Seeing everyone come together on an early Sunday, cheer on other participants, and collectively do the walk makes it all worthwhile!"

Teddy Segmuller, the SAAC vice president and member of the swim and dive team, has participated in the event every year she has been a Jasper, "Since I have been a student here, we have participated in the walk. Being able to show our Jasper pride at the walk is something very special to see."

Like millions of people around the world, the pain of breast cancer has touched Teddy's life. Teddy walks every year for her aunt, who is a survivor of breast cancer, and the strength of her aunt has served as an inspiration for Segmuller, just as survivors inspire those around them every day.

"Participating in this event means a lot to me. Each time I participate in this walk, I am walking for my aunt, a breast cancer survivor. Her strength and willingness to fight throughout her journey inspires me every day. I am very grateful that SAAC helps promote this event at Manhattan College."

Nicolette Caneda, a women's soccer team member, serves as the social media coordinator for SAAC. Canada's efforts are a reason why the student-athlete turnout for SAAC community service projects has been so strong.

"I am so happy we were able to get almost all of our teams to participate in the Breast Cancer Walk this past weekend," said Caneda. "SAAC does our best to get our athletes involved in as many good causes as possible. We do this to come together in support and create unity throughout athletics on campus."

Manhattan's SAAC E-Board focuses heavily on getting Manhattan student-athletes out in the community and positively impacting the community they are proud to call home and share with many others.

Simpson reflected on what he has been able to do and will be doing in his leadership position. "We've been able to promote such amazing organizations like The Friendly Fridge, Toys-for-Tots, and The Bronx DA's Office, to name a few. As student-athletes, it's important that we're leaders and represent Manhattan by being the best examples we possibly can be. As SAAC President, I've been fortunate enough to push and ensure we're getting involved outside our sports as much as possible."

Segmuller takes to heart her position in SAAC and how it gives her the ability to push for positive change and improve the lives of those in our community, which is personal to her.

"As the current Vice President of SAAC, I feel like my position has allowed me to share my enthusiasm for community outreach with other student-athletes and organizations such as Phi Epsilon Kappa (PEK) to help bring the Manhattan College community together. Working collaboratively to give back to our community is a rewarding experience, and I look forward to continuing to do so throughout my time here at Manhattan College."

Caneda shares the sentiment of her fellow SAAC officers on their ability to make an impact on our community.

"I think my position on SAAC allows me to spread the word and encourage others about what's going on and also what's to come. It means a lot to me to give back to organizations and causes on and off campus as much as possible. I'm so happy the walk went well, and I can't wait to see what's next!"