In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Shippensburg University’s D.I.V.A.S. and Elite Modeling Troupe turned Henderson Gymnasium into a celebration of fashion, empowerment and community for their Power in Pink Charity Runway.
The event raised funds and awareness for the African American Breast Cancer Association.
“This event supports an organization that helps African American women on their journey with breast cancer,” said D.I.V.A.S. President Khileaha McCraw. “Every dollar and every step tonight goes toward that cause, and everyone walking here is making a difference.”
D.I.V.A.S., which stands for Developing Dignity, Inspiring Intellect, Voicing Victory, Acquiring Assertiveness and Satisfying Self, blended empowerment and expression through a mix of student performances, a halftime dance and campuswide participation.
“This is fashion, purpose and energy all in one,” said runway announcer Jabrill David, who introduced student clubs dressed in pink. This included the Latino Student Organization, The Brothers Organization, the Pride and Gender Equity (PAGE) Center, and SUTV.
Alongside David was Shaniyah Fortson, another announcer at the runway, who told the audience to prepare for “strength, style and swagger all in one place.”
Fortson worked the music and the crowd, making sure everyone was engaged and energized the whole night.
McCraw said this was the first time D.I.V.A.S. hosted a charity runway, and it will not be the last.
“I think it’s important to have expressive events like these since we get so caught up in classes and building our résumés,” McCraw said. “This lets us come together, celebrate who we are and do something meaningful.”
Big Red closed out the night as the runway’s finale, wearing a pink sash and breaking it down as students got up from their seats and rushed the runway, carrying the empowerment and awareness D.I.V.A.S. hoped to share.
The Slate welcomes thoughtful discussion on all of our stories, but please keep comments civil and on-topic. Read our full guidelines here.