WEST CHESTER, Pa.- In front of another strong Hollinger Field House midweek crowd against Bloomsburg on Wednesday night, the West Chester University Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) continued what has been something of a tradition for the Golden Rams over the years that is unique to Division II - Granting a wish to a deserving child and their family in partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
The West Chester SAAC dedicates much of its work throughout each academic year to the support of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Through countless fundraisers and Make-A-Wish events, including a Lip Sync Battle, Dodgeball Competition, Waterpong Tournament, and canning at home events, and in the West Chester borough, the SAAC begins each year with the goal of raising enough money to cover the cost of granting a child a wish in partnership with Make-A-Wish. This initiative is unique to Division II and is something that West Chester has been a national leader in for many years, granting multiple wishes over the years, including a four-year stretch from 2017-20 and another wish last winter.
This year, in partnership once again with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Philadelphia, Delaware, and Susquehanna Valley, we identified another deserving child and their family to come to campus for a wish reveal. Ruby, who is continuing her medical battle with Fishman Syndrome, was a perfect choice.
True to the day, the SAAC, scores of Golden Ram athletes, and the Golden Ram faithful were on hand to surprise and celebrate with Ruby and her family by revealing her wish to travel to Hawaii with her family. SAAC provided Ruby with all the supplies one might need for an enjoyable trip to Hawaii as part of what was a tremendous moment in Hollinger once again.
"I always look forward to celebrating a wish with our entire student-athlete population," said Associate AD/SWA and SAAC Advisor
Kellianne Milliner. "Our SAAC spearheaded this event from planning to execution. Ellie Perrin, the SAAC VP, was fantastic as the emcee. It really shows how our Golden Rams come together to make things happen and make their actions known. Meeting Ruby and her family was awesome as well. Ruby stole the show, addressing the crowd, and it was amazing!"
On behalf of everyone at West Chester University Athletics, safe travels and have fun, Ruby!
