“This is a very meaningful event to us because many sisters have some sort of relationship with cancer.”
Members of a Utica University sorority spent a week braving the cold for a good cause this February.
Chi Beta Sigma hosted the annual Deep Freeze event, with members bundling up and tackling winter’s chilly embrace as they slept inside tents between February 18-24 on the lawn behind Strebel Student Center. The annual Deep Freeze fundraiser was originally started several years ago by the University’s Alpha Chi Rho fraternity.
It was all in an effort to raise money for the American Cancer Society - a leading cancer-fighting organization with a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. For more than 110 years, the organization has been working to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through advocacy, research, and patient support.
Founded in 1946 at the same time Utica University started as Utica College, Chi Beta Sigma is a local sorority with a motto of “faith, learning, and companionship” and a philanthropic philosophy toward domestic violence and other issues affecting women.
“This is a very meaningful event to us because many sisters have some sort of relationship with cancer,” says Chi Beta Sigma President Antonia ‘Toni’ Palmisano.
Throughout the duration, the sorority hosted various events at and around their campus center campground site as the students worked to raise funds.
“This year included an All-Greek Hot Cocoa Night, a snowball fight, s’mores, and a snow sculpture contest,” Palmisano says. “The week concluded with a Candlelight Vigil, honoring those affected by cancer.”
A total of more than $4,500 was raised between online and in-person donations throughout the week, and the sorority sisters continue to fundrais until they meet their goal.
“Deep Freeze has become a meaningful tradition at Utica University, demonstrating the power of community and philanthropy,” she says.
Donations are still being accepted and can be made online at the Chi Beta Sigma Deep Freeze Donation Page.
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