News Byte: Walk for Independence

More than 130 students, staff, and alumni participated in the ninth annual Benjamin J. Cecil 5K Walk and Fun Run for Independence on September 21 on the Long Island campus. The annual event raised nearly $10,000 to support the Benjamin J. Cecil Memorial Scholarship fund and the New York Institute of Technology Vocational Independence Program (VIP).

VIP strives to support, motivate, and encourage students with learning differences to lead healthy lifestyles. “We walk always for the future and for the independence of all of our students,” said Paul Cavanagh, Ph.D., senior director of VIP. Immediately following the completion of the 5K, VIP alumni, students, and family members participated in an open forum with New York Tech President Hank Foley, Ph.D.

The walk, which kicked off the 2019 Homecoming and Family Weekend, is held in honor of VIP student Benjamin “Jamie” Cecil who tragically passed away during his freshman year. Since its inception, the scholarship has been awarded to more than 48 students.

By Kelly Glover