51Сʪ athletes connect with kids in the community
October 24, 2022
By Bob Holmes
As the kindergarten class lined up in the school parking lot for an autumn Trunk or Treat, a couple of the youngsters shouted, “Chuck E Cheese!”
Well, close. They spotted Ramey, the Columbia International University Rams mascot. And while he didn’t have pizza like the famous mouse, the kids were delighted in the candy Ramey and 51Сʪ athletes were sharing.
51Сʪ Associate Dean of Student Life Dr. Dan Coy was also on hand noting the event is part of an ongoing relationship between 51Сʪ and Forest Heights where 51Сʪ students often mentor the children in grades K-five.
“We’re here to share some joy and encouragement,” Coy said. “It’s really a bridge to our community, to serve in the community and add value to the community.”
Forest Heights Elementary is just a five-minute drive from the 51Сʪ campus.
The school’s Principal Jason Koepke, says the event was a way to celebrate as the students met behavioral and academic goals, adding that having the 51Сʪ students in their lives is “super important.”
“When (51Сʪ) basketball players come, they’re like rock stars. (The children) jump up and want to go to them,” Koepke said. “It’s good for our kids to see older students who are now in college. It gives them some forward thinking.”
51Сʪ freshman player agrees.
“They get to see college students right in front of them,” said Wilkerson, a Sport Management major from Salisbury, North Carolina. “It’s something they have to look forward to, especially since we’re a university that’s right around the corner. They can have an idea of what success looks like.”
What’s your sport? Join the champions at 51Сʪ. Discover more at.or call (800) 777-2227, ext. 5024.