By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Champlain College-Lennoxville celebrated a major fundraising milestone on Nov. 28, raising $8,000 for the Sarcoma Research Consortium of Quebec (SaRC-Q) through its annual Pink Games. The initiative, led by the college’s athletics department and student association, brought the Lennoxville community together for a cause close to home.
“We exceeded all expectations,” said Jean-François Joncas, Dean of Student Services, who opened the event held on site by acknowledging the collective effort. “This achievement reflects the strength of our community.” Joncas highlighted the collaboration between Champlain’s students, staff, and alumni, who played vital roles in surpassing last year’s total of $4,025.
The Pink Games, held throughout the fall semester, involved athletes from all sports teams donning pink jerseys and participating in events to raise awareness and funds. Merchandise sales, particularly at campus events like the Lennoxville fall market, were a significant source of revenue.
Devon Stewart, Champlain’s Athletic Director, detailed the inspiration behind this year’s choice of beneficiary. “We wanted to give back to our Cougar family,” he explained. Stewart shared the story of Adam, a former Cougar battling sarcoma, which influenced the decision to direct funds toward sarcoma research. Stewart set the ambitious goal of doubling last year’s total. “This was about supporting one of our own and making an impact in a neglected area of cancer research,” he said.
Dr. Patrick Wang, a Champlain alumnus and orthopedic oncologist at SaRC-Q, received the cheque on behalf of the organization. Reflecting on his journey from Champlain’s health sciences program to his current work, Wang credited in a conversation after the event the college for sparking his passion. “Champlain shaped my approach to medicine,” he said. “It’s surreal to return here as both a recipient and advocate.”
