CHARLOTTE – OCT. 24, 2009 – More than 600 runners and dozens of volunteers turned out on a drizzly but triumphant morning today, raising more than $27,000 for need-based scholarships at UNC Charlotte. All proceeds from the inaugural 4.NINERK event will be provided to students who need financial aid to remain in school next semester.

The focal point of the event was a 4.9 kilometer footrace along an undulating course on the UNC Charlotte campus.

“It’s gratifying to see so many people turn out and make this race an overwhelming success,” said Chancellor Philip L. Dubois. “Almost every day I receive e-mail messages from students faced with financial decisions no student should have to make. Their families are suffering financially and cannot help them, and they often already work, sometimes more than one job, to supplement the financial aid they receive. Many are first-generation college students – in fact, UNC Charlotte educates the largest number of first-generation students in the UNC system. The proceeds from today’s run will help many stay in school.”

For the fall semester, UNC Charlotte welcomed a record enrollment of more than 24,700 students. Come spring, a significant number of these students may be unable to continue their studies due to state budget cuts to need-based financial aid. Due to the current economic climate, an even larger number of students applied for financial aid this fall. However, the state budget eliminated several sources of potential aid.

“This year, financial aid applications are up 30 percent. With less aid from the state, some of our neediest students would be unable to return in the spring,” said David Dunn, vice chancellor for university relations and community affairs. “Thanks to the runners, volunteers and our steadfast sponsorship partners, many students may be able to stay in school.”

After the race, runners and their families enjoyed a post-race barbeque and other activities, including 49er Fan Day in Halton Arena, where Charlotte 49ers men’s and women’s basketball teams held scrimmages and signed autographs.

Major sponsors included the UNC Charlotte Alumni Association, Presbyterian Hospital Huntersville, The Charlotte Observer, Fifth Third Bank, 49Fanatics.com, Chartwells and Trader Joe’s.
                                                          # # #