Campus & Community

Faculty and Staff: Join Your Colleagues at the 鶹ƵWorkForce Run/Walk/Roll for Food, Fitness and Fun

Friday, April 19, 2024, By News Staff
Otto poses with staff members at the 2023 鶹ƵWorkForce Run

2023 Workforce Run participants with Otto (Photo by Randy Pellis)

At the 2023 鶹ƵWorkForce Run/Walk/Roll (formerly the J.P. Morgan Corporate Challenge), 鶹ƵUniversity held the distinction of being the largest employer represented among dozens of local companies participating in the annual tradition for the second year in a row.

Two people in white T-shirts that say 鶹ƵUniversity walking in a race.

Jacqui Smith (center) participating in the 2023 Workforce run (Photo by Randy Pellis)

In June, University faculty and staff members will have the opportunity to reclaim that title and enjoy an evening of camaraderie, networking, food, fun and movement. Participants of all abilities and fitness levels are encouraged to join the 鶹ƵUniversity team. “Campus gets very busy this time of year with Commencement and end of year activities, so this is a fun evening to hang out with people that share the same Orange pride,” says Jacqui Smith, member of the planning committee for the University’s team. “This is also a great chance to get to know other folks from around campus in a low-pressure environment. And there’s food and T-shirts so who can say no to that?!”

Everyone’s favorite mascot, Otto, will also be there again this year to cheer on the 鶹Ƶteam—so if you’ve ever wanted to give them a high-five as you cross the finish line, here is your chance!

Interested? Here’s What You Need to Know

  • This year’s race begins at 6:45 p.m. on Thursday, June 6, at Onondaga Lake Parkway in Liverpool.
  • The distance is 5K (3.1 miles) and a map of the course is .
  • There is a $43 registration fee, half of which is paid by the University. Participants will need to make a $21.50 credit card payment when they .
  • The deadline to register is Monday, May 6.
  • The registration fee includes a 鶹ƵUniversity team t-shirt to wear during the event, an official race T-shirt and a complimentary buffet-style dinner (vegetarian and gluten-free options will be available).
  • Packet and t-shirt pickup will be held at our tent 1.5-2 hours before the event.
  • Parking is available at NBT Bank Stadium, and a complimentary shuttle bus service is provided. The has detailed parking information and answers to frequently asked questions.

The 鶹ƵWorkForce Run is for  of the University; however friends and family are welcome to join by registering as an individual participant, paying the full race fee of $55 and picking up their own race packet.

“Don’t miss out on this great team building event and opportunity to represent 鶹ƵUniversity, while getting some exercise with others,” says Erin Schaal, who is also a member of the planning committee.

For any questions about the event, please email wellness@syr.edu.

panoramic shot of SU participants in the 2023 WorkForce Run at Onondaga Lake Parkway

2023 鶹ƵUniversity Workforce Run Team (Photo by Randy Pellis)