Emily Orsini, Sports Editor–
With Denison being a smaller university, the ability to have meaningful relationships with other students and professors can be much higher than at a larger school.
Specifically, student-athletes are able to form bonds with one another over the shared challenge of being a student athlete at such a rigorously academic institution.
The Project Life Movement is an organization independent of Denison that aims to save lives of those affected by leukemia, lymphoma and sickle cell disease. The Denison Student Athlete Advisory Council (DSAAC), is working with this cause in order to help spread awareness and gain more resources towards research and benefiting those affected by the previously mentioned conditions.
“This cause is to save lives for people who have leukemia, lymphoma and sickle cell disease by growing the number of potential stem cell and bone marrow donors on the global registry,” said Violet Mitchell ‘27, who is on the women’s basketball team.
This cause is a perfect example of what it means to be an athlete at Denison— students, athletes, and faculty alike are able to extend their own resources in order to support a cause that has greatly impacted one of our coaches here on campus, women’s basketball coach Maureen Hirt.
“[Hirt] was diagnosed with non-hodgkin’s lymphoma about a year and a half ago,” said Mitchell, “Seeing Coach Mo go through chemo, radiation, and stem cell transplant has shown how strong of a person she is. This cause means a lot to me as it has directly impacted a very important person in my life.”
Mitchell is also the PR Manager for DSAAC, allowing her to be involved with the organization in multiple ways. The Project Life Movement isn’t just another fundraiser to Mitchell— it’s a way to make a difference.
“This project has impacted me because I have been able to collaborate with many hard-working individuals whether that is through the student-athlete organizations, or if that is connecting with the head of the Project-Life Movement,” said Mitchell. “I feel a strong connection to it because I feel like I am helping a cause greater than myself. The best coach I have ever played for has directly been impacted by cancer, so it also provides for a more personal impact too.”
This event is open to all students and faculty who want to engage with the cause and make a difference in someone’s life.
“At this event, students will sign a form to sign up for the bone marrow and global stem cell registry. [By signing up,] this doesn’t mean that you have to actually give your stem cells and bone marrow at Denison. [All you have to do is contribute] a cheek swab to be put into the database to see if you are matched with anyone,” said Mitchell. “Only about 1 in 1,000 registrants will be called for a potential match.
This organization will be on campus this week in order to get more college students in the global registry in order to help those in need of stem cells or bone marrow transplants.
“Denisonians can get involved in this event by doing a simple cheek swab which takes virtually no time. This event is Feb. 11 and Feb. 13 during common hours outside of Slayter,” said Mitchell.
The collaboration between DSAAC and the Project Life Movement highlights the strong sense of community and support that defines the Denison student-athlete experience.
Through their efforts, student-athletes like Mitchell are not only raising awareness but also providing tangible opportunities for individuals to contribute to a life-saving cause. This initiative serves as a powerful reminder of how Denison students come together to make a meaningful impact beyond the campus, embodying the values of compassion, teamwork, and service.