By Mikayla Hixson
October 25, 2026
Zeta Tau Alpha is honoring the memory of late sister Toby Atwood through a 5k run on October 25 that brings together the chapter’s passion for philanthropy and its commitment to keeping her memory alive.
According to Cydney Wierzbowski, chapter president and harm reduction chair, the event was inspired by Atwood’s love of running and her determination to pursue her goals. “Before Toby passed, she was really passionate about running and always wanted to reach for the sky,” Wierzbowski said. “We figured that raising money for a scholarship and our philanthropy in honor of Toby while doing what she loved best would be the best route.”
Atwood was remembered by Wierzbowski as an exceptional sister, friend, and student who made a lasting impact on the chapter. She served as a mentor to other members and developed friendships throughout the organization. “She was taken from us too soon, and I think it’s important to talk about her and keep her light alive,” Wierzbowski said.
In addition to honoring Atwood, the event supports Zeta Tau Alpha’s commitment to breast cancer awareness. The organization works to raise awareness about a disease that affects women and men across the country. Wierzbowski emphasized the importance of education, early detection, and prevention, particularly as breast cancer diagnoses continue to affect younger women.
The planning process for the 5K required considerable time and coordination from chapter members. Wierzbowski credited sister Abbigail Yavorsky, who served as the event’s chair, with leading the planning efforts. “She works so hard, and I am so proud of her,” Wierzbowski said. “It took a lot of time and effort to plan the run. The logistics take more than you think, and she did it flawlessly.”
Chapter members also contribute by helping with race-day preparations, organizing activities, and selling basket raffle tickets. Wierzbowski said members consistently volunteer their time and effort to make the event successful, even with their other academic and extracurricular commitments.
While the event brings the chapter together for a shared purpose, it also carries an emotional significance for those who knew Atwood. Wierzbowski said the day of the race can be particularly challenging because it brings back memories of their late sister. “I miss her very much, but I feel so lucky to have known her,” Wierzbowski said.
The chapter’s fundraising efforts have also reached a significant milestone. Wierzbowski recalled attending the organization’s national convention as a freshman and seeing a fundraising goal of $10,000, which seemed difficult to achieve at the time. During the previous year, the chapter raised $10,000 for the first time since 2016. For Wierzbowski, reaching that goal demonstrated the results of the chapter’s collective work and dedication. “To me, it just means that out efforts paid off,” Wierzbowski said. “Every sister worked so hard despite being involved in so much, and I think that’s what impresses me most.”
Through the 5K, Zeta Tau Alpha continues to combine fundraising with remembrance, celebrating Atwood’s love of running while supporting causes that remain important to the organization. For the chapter, the event serves as an opportunity to honor a sister whose influence continues to be felt among those who knew her.
Zeta Tau Alpha members posing at the track during the 5K, taken by unknown photographer
