Relay For Life at FSU is supporting the fight against cancer and getting ready for their annual fundraising event. The student organization raised more than $34,000 in one day for cancer research and patient support in partnership with the American Cancer Society (ACS) at recent events ahead of the fundraiser on April 11.  

“Relay For Life shows the power of students coming together for something bigger than themselves and creating a community of hope and support for those affected by cancer,” said Kelsey Strigler, executive director of Relay For Life at FSU. “As executive director, it’s inspiring to see our community unite to fundraise, spread awareness and support the mission of the American Cancer Society until there is a cure.” 

The organization held several events during Giving Tuesday 2025, when more than 35 registered student organizations and 145 individuals fundraised to achieve this milestone. The day started with a giving event on Landis Green which included a power hour of fundraising, pieing and student performances. RFL at FSU’s goal was to raise $20,000, a mark that they exceeded by $14,000, a 290% increase from the 2024 Giving Tuesday event. 

“Relay For Life shows the power of students coming together for something bigger than themselves and creating a community of hope and support for those affected by cancer.”

— Kelsey Strigler, executive director of Relay For Life at FSU

After placing third nationally during Fall Fundraising Week, Relay For Life at FSU qualified as a top college to participate in the Fall Fumble, an exclusive bracket challenge featuring the country’s top 32 fundraising universities. By securing first place in this final competition, the organization was officially named “College Champion” by the ACS. 

“The Relay For Life student leaders have come into this year with a passion and drive that exceeds all expectations,” said Stormy McGivern, director of the FSU Office of Student Organizations and Involvement. “Their dedication to raising awareness about and fundraising for the American Cancer Society directly supports countless members of our FSU community who have been directly impacted by cancer. We’re thrilled to see RFL continue to expand their campus and community partnerships. Their success in the Fall Fumble is a testament to the work they’ve put in so far. We look forward to seeing the culmination of their year at Relay on April 11!”

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Relay For Life at Florida State University has been recognized with two awards by the American Cancer Society (ACS) through the Pat Flynn Spirit of Relay Awards, which recognizes college campuses and organizational leaders nationally.

Relay For Life at FSU was named the 2024 Campus Event of the Year. The award recognizes events that embody the passion, innovation and grassroots spirit of Relay For Life.

“It is such a tremendous honor for Relay For Life at FSU to be recognized for their work as a student organization,” said Stormy McGivern, program director with FSU Student Organizations and Involvement. “While these awards recognize the accomplishments of the organization in 2024, they truly acknowledge the passion, perseverance and dedication of the organization over several years. Their collaborative efforts have established them as national leaders among their peers. We are thrilled to have such a vibrant program as a part of the registered student organization community at FSU.”

Awards are chosen by the Nationwide American Cancer Society Fundraising Leadership Community and Campus Teams. In the nomination materials, Carlye Collison, FSU’s ACS staff partner, highlighted the students’ creativity, determination and relentless spirit in the fight against cancer.

In 2024, Relay For Life at FSU raised more than $123,000, surpassing its $108,000 goal. The student-led organization has consistently exceeded its targets, achieving 22% annual growth in fundraising.

Catherine Marshall, Relay For Life at FSU 2023-24 executive director, was also honored as the 2024 Campus Relayer of the Year. This honor recognizes volunteers who have shown exemplary leadership in their community or campus.

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