Molloy is excited to announce that social studies teacher Mr. Joe Beaudet will be participating in a 24 Hour Run for 2 Causes, right on Stanner Field! The fundraiser has two goals: to support the Kaitlyn Mendoza Fund and raise awareness of pediatric cancer in memory of Kaitlyn Mendoza ‘22; to support the Karina Vetrano Memorial Scholarship and raise awareness of runner safety in memory of Karina Vetrano ‘04. Beginning at 3:00pm on Friday, September 22nd and ending 3:00pm Saturday, September 23rd, the event is open to all and will feature Mr. Beaudet in perpetual forward motion for 24 hours straight!
A Beloved Daughter, Friend, Teammate, and Student
Kaitlyn Mendoza was a talented student and tennis player who was beloved by her family, friends, and teachers. Devastatingly, after a battle with cancer, Kaitlyn passed away prior to the start of her senior year. As her history teacher, Mr. Beaudet admired every aspect of Kaitlyn. All of his memories of her are of a stellar honors student and gifted athlete that never missed class, never required extensions on assignments, asked poignant questions, and had a genuine love for school. “Kaitlyn was not only one of the most impactful students I’ve ever taught, but one of the most impactful people,” shares Mr. Beaudet. He continues, “She embodied characteristics that I hope to have myself. Her traits and qualities should not just be remembered, but celebrated.”
The Kaitlyn Mendoza Fund was created to provide scholarships for young women attending Molloy and to provide grants to the Girls Tennis Program. When Mr. Beaudet learned of the scholarship, he knew immediately he wanted to do something to support the fund and honor Kaitlyn. In collaboration with Executive Director of Development Mr. Craig Katinas ‘93 and Principal Dr. Darius Penikas, a fundraising run was suggested, considering Mr. Beaudet’s running history. An avid runner, Mr. Beaudet has participated in countless running events, including the Boston Marathon, the NYC Marathon, the Leadville 100 in Colorado, the JFK 50 Mile Memorial in Maryland, the Rocky Racoon 100K in Texas, and the Trail Malt Blanc in various European countries. Mr. Beaudet has also previously completed a 24 hour run.
A Continued Legacy
As the 24 Hour Run for 2 Causes took shape, Mr. Katinas and Dr. Penikas suggested Molloy also raise awareness for runner safety in memory of Karina Vetrano, a Molloy alumna from the Class of 2004 who was tragically killed in August 2016. Karina was on a run when she was unexpectedly attacked, and the 24 Hour Run will help raise awareness of safety initiatives for women while running alone. Mr. Katinas says, “It is important to raise awareness about health and safety to make a positive difference for present and future generations.” Mr. Beaudet adds, “I have four daughters, two of which run track. My running coach is a talented woman. I’m surrounded by strong women, many who run, and it just makes sense that this event promotes their safety and that of all women.”
A Community Effort
Students, families, friends, alumni, and the entire Molloy community are welcome to come out and show their support for Mr. Beaudet at any point during those 24 hours. Support can be shown by walking, jogging, or running alongside Mr. Beaudet for as little or as long as possible, standing and cheering from the sidelines, or making a donation to one or both of these wonderful causes! The goal is to maximize funds for both Kaitlyn’s and Karina's scholarships, both of which help outstanding students in need to attend Molloy.
Mr. Beaudet is excited to utilize his passion for running for a greater cause. A teacher and coach at Molloy, he shares, “Kaitlyn’s traits and qualities should not just be remembered, but celebrated.” Mr. Matt Rizzoti ‘04, member of Molloy’s Stanner Alumni Center and close friend of Karina’s, adds, “Karina had a tremendous love for life and made her mark wherever she went, and her scholarship was established to select future female students with the gift of education at Molloy.”
“I admire Joe’s dedication to Molloy and to undertake this tremendous run to benefit two extremely important causes represented by their respective Molloy foundations," said Dr. Penikas. "I hope to accompany him on his journey for at least one of the twenty-four hours!”
Molloy is honored to be able to share in and continue the legacy of these two remarkable individuals, Kaitlyn Mendoza and Karina Vetrano. We hope you will join us or make a gift to one or both of these wonderful causes.
Click Here or the button at the top of this article to make a gift today.