Greeks stroll to support breast cancer foundation

Whitaker Gym was crowded as the Kappa chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. and Raging Rams sponsored a free Stroll Off Jan. 19. The event raised more than $400 in donations.

A Stroll Off is when each Greek organization shows off their signature steps.

Iota Phi Theta has hosted this event for two years, but this was the first time they collaborated with Raging Rams. Last year they raised $300.

The chapter wanted to find a cause to support, and stick to it.

They chose the Susan G. Komen Foundation; all of the proceeds went toward their search for the cure. The Komen Foundation is the world's largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer.

Leigh Satalino, community outreach manager in Winston-Salem, attended the Stroll Off on behalf of the Foundation.

"The turnout was excellent; great enthusiasm," Satalino said.

Raging Rams started the night with three Winston-Salem State chants.

B-Daht, an alum of the University and radio personality, hosted the Stroll Off.

"It gave people something to do on a Wednesday night," B-Daht said.

 "It was a fun, festive night."

Each fraternity and sorority strolled or stepped at the event, including Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity, Inc.; Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Band Sorority, Inc.; and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. The unity stroll ended the night's event.

Christopher Taylor, senior political science and psychology major from Wilmington, said that he donated and encouraged others to do the same.

"There was a full house," Taylor said.

"I think with more time, the already outstanding event could have been more successful."

Deneene Willis, senior nursing major from New York, said the number of people at the Stroll Off was appropriate for the amount of space in the gym.

"The purpose of the event was very beneficial towards the community," Willis said.

Dejon Holland is a member of Iota Phi Theta and a senior justice studies major from Charlotte.

"With the semester just starting, we weren't sure about the turnout," Holland said.

"It was a lot better than expected. I'm satisfied."