Students running for UNM's 2002 Homecoming Court took time out of their busy schedules last week to partner with the New Mexico Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to raise money for national Cystic Fibrosis Week.
The students in contention for the title of Homecoming king and queen sold "roses" for $10 as part of the extensive community service that accompanies the title of Homecoming representative for UNM.
"The title of Homecoming king or queen is a very high honor," said Keri Shiplet, homecoming director. "We feel that it is important, as a representative of the University, to have involvement with the community."
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation was established in 1955 to assure the development of the means to cure and control cystic fibrosis and to improve the quality of life for those with the disease.
The foundation supports and accredits more than 110 care centers nationwide, which provide high-quality, specialized care for those with Cystic Fibrosis. These centers, located at major teaching and community hospitals, offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for people with Cystic Fibrosis and their families.
In a University press release, Erin Gebhardt, Special Events Coordinator for the New Mexico Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, said, "We are so excited to have the opportunity to work with such committed and spirited collegians for such an important cause and one of UNM's strongest traditions."
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Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic condition affecting the respiratory and digestive systems of more than 30,000 people across the country. Currently, the only certified care center for those afflicted with the disease in New Mexico is at the UNM Hospital.
"It is gratifying to hear that the King and Queen candidates have chosen to dedicate their fundraising effort to something related to health care," said Sam Giammo, director of Public Affairs at UNM's Health Science Center. "The money will benefit New Mexicans whose lives have been affected by a serious disease. This is yet another example of how UNM students, faculty and staff continue to be good community partners."
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation funds research for the treatment and cure of cystic fibrosis in addition to helping fund the care center at University Hospital, and boasts one of the highest efficiency ratings among nonprofit organizations with 90 cents of every dollar raised going directly to research and funding for affiliated care centers.
The "roses" that are being sold have a special implication for people suffering with the disease, especially children, who often refer to the disease as "65 roses" because it is easier to pronounce.
The 21 candidates were hoping to sell ten roses each, with those that were sold being displayed in a "rose garden" at various Homecoming events throughout this week.
