Glow the Distance 5K Lights Up the Gardner-Webb Campus for a Cause

Family-friendly Evening Run and Activities Support GWU Students Through Bulldog Cares Fund

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Gardner-Webb University Department of Physician Assistant (PA) Studies is sponsoring “Glow the Distance 5K,” a fun evening for students and families to raise money for fellow GWU students in need. The event will be on Nov. 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the parking lot of the College of Health Sciences, 315 W. College Ave., Boiling Springs.

Assistant Professor Dr. Allison Shamblin, director of Didactic Education, noted that PA students enjoy helping others and decided to host this event to raise funds for Bulldog Cares, a joint initiative led by Gardner-Webb’s Student Development, Student Success, and Financial Planning offices. The fund provides emergency financial support for students facing unexpected hardships that could prevent them from continuing their education. This aid helps with urgent needs and is not a replacement for financial aid.

Shamblin emphasized, “The glow element makes it more exciting than a standard race—think neon lights, glow sticks, black lights, and cool outfits. It turns the run into more of an event or party than a competition. It’s also a great way to get family and friends together for an enjoyable and memorable evening.” 

Jill Jesser, the president of the PA Cohort of 2027, is excited to help host the event. “Planning this 5K has been so much fun,” Jesser shared. “Each of us has gotten to contribute our own piece of the puzzle, whether that be with decorations, T-shirt design, seeking sponsorships, or getting the word out to the community. Knowing that all our hard work is going to a great cause to support our fellow students here at Gardner-Webb makes it all the more rewarding!”

Shamblin added that glow items will be available to participants at the beginning of the race. These include glow sticks, bracelets, sunglasses, washable tattoos and face paint, hair accessories, and balloons. “We will also have plenty of games for kids including an inflatable slide, glow limbo, glow bowling and others,” Shamblin highlighted. “We will have awards for the best ‘glow’ costume, so we are encouraging everyone to wear their best glow attire. Bring the family and come join us!”

The after-dark 5K course through campus will light up the night with glow stations, music, and family-friendly fun. Following the 5K, activities for children and families will also be offered on the lawn.

Go the Extra Mile—Support Bulldog Cares

Not everyone can lace up for the Glow Run—but everyone can still make an impact by donating to support the Bulldog Cares Fund, directly helping Gardner-Webb students in need. By donating, you’re doing more than cheering on the sidelines—you’re removing barriers and helping students stay on track to graduate. Every gift makes a difference in keeping Bulldogs moving forward. Donate here. Sponsorships are also available here.

Glow the Distance 5K Details

• General registration through race evening is $25.
• Special rates available:
• $20 – Gardner-Webb faculty and staff.
• $15 – All students.
• $12 – T-shirt only.
• T-shirt guarantee: Register by Oct. 23 to guarantee your shirt and size.

Race Day Schedule, Nov. 15

• Packet Pickup / On-site Registration: 5:30–6:20 p.m.
• Race Start: 6:30 p.m.
• Free Kids Glow Dash: immediately after the 5K (ages 10 and younger).

Awards

• Top three Overall Male/Female
• Top three in each age group: 10 and younger; 11–14; 15–19; 20–24; 25–29; 30–39; 40–49; 50–59; and 60 and older.
• Best Overall Glow Costume

Safety Reminders

This is a night course: watch footing, stay visible, and follow volunteer instructions. Reflective wear and headlamps are recommended.

For more information, email Shamblin at [email protected].

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email [email protected] with your request.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Learn more at gardner-webb.edu.