This past Saturday, September 24, members of the Gwynedd community came together to celebrate the Carolyn Keen 5K run, also known as the CK5K. The CK5K fundraiser supports the Carolyn Keen scholarship that is eligible for one Gwynedd junior per class. The scholars are chosen to honor and carry out the legacy of Carolyn, a Gwynedd girl who unfortunately passed away during her time at Gwynedd. The fundraiser is dedicated to her and her family, and the love she brought to our school community that continues to grow each year.

The morning started off with friends, family, students, teachers, and parents of the Gwynedd community gathering to prepare for the race. Everyone was decked out in their CK5K shirts, along with their red and gold apparel to show their support for the day’s activities. Some of the registered members ran the 5K, while others participated in the mile walk. The race began at promptly nine in the morning, and the runners were off! After the race, everyone gathered to do some activities, listen to music, and, of course, eat lots of food! Much-needed bagel and coffee food trucks were provided to help soothe everyone from the chilly early morning and tired, post run hunger. There was a DJ playing music that everyone enjoyed, and later Gwynedd Mercy’s own Girls with Guitars shared their talents through music in memory of Carolyn. Some Gwynedd students ran a face painting station that people of all ages enjoyed. Another station was set up by students who sold our school’s book that was created last year through TEA Publishing at GMA. The morning concluded around noon after all the fun activities came to a close. The CK5K was filled with smiling faces, laughs, and love between family and friends in the Gwynedd community.

“I love the CK5K because of the pure spirit and unity that the Gwynedd community experiences. We have the privilege to celebrate Carolyn’s life and participate in all of the activities that she would do today. We run for Carolyn!” -Julia LaBoy, Class of 2024, Carolyn Keen Scholarship Recipient.