VCU School of Dentistry students challenge themselves to help veterans
Cheryle Rodriguez
VCU Office of Public Affairs
(804) 827-0889
clrodriguez@vcu.edu
VCU School of Dentistry students took a break from their studies to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project by participating in an intense 12-mile obstacle course known as Tough Mudder.
Twelve students traveled to Frederick, Md., for the challenge, testing their strength, stamina, mental grit and their ability to work as a team.
“The obstacle course was set up by a military special opps team,” said Jay Owen, team leader and third-year dental student. “We were hot, wet, drained and really had to rely on each other to complete the course. It was very humbling.”
Wounded Warrior Project provides several programs for veterans, such as counseling, peer support, rehabilitative services and employment services.
“We get so hung up in lab and clinic work, we don’t always have an option to help out,” said Owen. “We vowed to be servants and we wanted to find a way to have fun, raise money and help those, who help us.”
To showcase their spirit and unity, the students had T-shirts made featuring VCU’s new logo.
“A lot of folks asked us about the T-shirts — they were a huge hit,” said Jay. “People were honking and hollering—saying ‘go Rams.’”
The students contributed more than $1,000 by participating in the event.
Tough Mudder participants worldwide have raised more than $3 million dollars for the Wounded Warrior Project.
Categories Schoolwide News