Iona University’s Phi Sigma Sigma sorority hosted its annual Founders Day 5k on campus Saturday, raising $1,345 for Columbus Elementary School in Downtown New Rochelle. Roughly 300 students in Greek life, members of Iona’s Running Club, friends, family and dogs attended, marking

one the biggest turnouts in recent years. The event goes beyond a walk or run. The Founders 5k is about providing essential resources for students attending Columbus Elementary School whether it be new books, supplies or extracurricular funding, according to 5k Chair and Phi Sigma Sigma member at Iona, Vanessa Comitini.“Every step we take fundraising brings us closer to changing the lives of local students who need it the most,” said Comitini.Participants ran or walked four laps around Iona’s campus and

enjoyed refreshments and raffles after completing the 5k. “[The 5k] allows us to stay in touch with our surrounding community and brings the Iona community together,” said Emma Brannigan, philanthropy and service chair of Phi Sigma Sigma at Iona. “As Phi Sig, we are passionate about giving back and being able to connect with the New Rochelle community which is something we are really proud of.”

Every chapter of Phi Sigma Sigma around the country partakes in the Founders’ Day 5k each November to honor the legacy of the women who founded the sorority in 1913. There are currently 115 active chapters that each fundraise for various causes.At Iona, donations were

promoted through Instagram advertisements, and campus flyers in the weeks leading up to the event. Phi Sigma Sigma used the CrowdChange platform to raise funds for Columbus Elementary school and will remain open for additional contributions. “I am really excited about what we have been able to do this year, and I look forward to building on this tradition of giving back,” said Brannigan.