NATCHITOCHES – The Kiwanis Club of Natchitoches’ Sept. 20 Color Run and Pancake Festival drew strong support from the Northwestern State University family with several students, faculty and staff turning out for the races. The event is held annually to support children and raise funds for youth programs.
“The 5K Color Run and Pancake Festival once again showcased the strong partnership between NSU and the Kiwanis Club of Natchitoches, highlighting how service, fun and community can come together to make a lasting difference for children,” said Dr. Damien Tristant, assistant professor of Physics and coordinator of the Physical Science Department.
The one-mile fun run and 5K Color Run (3.2 miles) took place on the NSU campus with festivities concluding at Collins Pavilion. The event was organized by the Kiwanis board members Brittany Barton, president; Tiffany Woods, president-elect; Craig George, past president; Nabin Sapkota, treasurer and NSU professor; Craig Caskey, secretary and NSU instructor, and directors Russell Meissner, Crystal Conway and Tiffanie Mitchell as well as many volunteers, including NSU Baseball and Lady Demon Softball players, NSU Baseball Coach Chris Bertrand, a Kiwanis member, and members of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority.
Several NSU runners distinguished themselves:
- Shannon Hale – 1st place in her female age category
- Leslie Gruesbeck – 3rd place in her female age category
- Tre’ Jackson – 2nd place in his male age category
- Amy Stepp – 2nd place overall, female division
- Damien Tristant – 3rd place overall, male division
Sapkota and Steven Gruesbeck also crossed the finish line, representing NSU with spirit and determination.
To learn more about the Kiwanis Club of Natchitoches, visit https://k02757.site.kiwanis.org and the club’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/people/Kiwanis-Club-of-Natchitoches-Inc/61564484187618/.