Nijah McKinney
Students hopped, swung, laughed and moved to music as they practiced Zumba to raise money for the American Heart Association in the Leroy T. Walker gym Friday, Feb. 12.
The event was from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and tickets were sold to students for $5 and $8 for the general public.
“I wanted to put this event together because I’m all about being active and healthy, and I wanted to do something where people could do that and have fun,” Fitness and Wellness coordinator of campus recreational program Donnae Ward said.
Five different instructors had a session in leading the participants in a variety of Zumba dances.
Information booths were set up around the gymnasium about “Going Red!” (A social initiative designed to empower people to take charge of their health) and the American Heart Association, along with tips for a healthy heart.
There were also booths with information on the Men’s Achievement Center, and the Student Disability services here at NCCU.
Across the gym there were community vendors selling hair care products, apparel, and purses and clutches.
Proudafrikan was among the venders, with a variety of apparel and wear “Encouraging Students to be proud of who they are”, and Hotbagz with a collection of purses and clutches of all styles.
Another table sold Zumba wear from tee-shirts, to headbands, wristbands, and much more. Alongside was Donnae Ward’s very own line of natural body oil and scrubs for sell.
According to Ward she collaborated with the Men’s Achievement Center, Spiritual Development and Dialogue and Student Disability services to pull off this event.
“I feel the goal of this event was met because we raised money for the American Heart Association, spread some awareness of what Zumba is and how fun it can be, and also bringing in community vendors was a good idea.” Ward said
There were raffle tickets being drawn with prizes given to winners including water bottles from the Men’s Achievement Center, and a free Zumba tee shirt.
“This was so successful. And the instructors were just great,” recreational administration junior Monique Edwards said.
“I had an extremely good time. I felt like I got to put my own flavor into the exercises and just really have fun,” public health junior Sheila White said.
“I hope to do this again and possibly even make it an annual event. Not just for “Go Red” causes, but maybe even for like breast cancer awareness, or homecoming week. Hopefully we could really collaborate with this and do it more in the future,” Ward said.
