Promotional material for Pie for a Purpose By Madison Smith, Managing editor of content
The University of Montevallo Student Nurses Association hosted its first Pie for a Purpose fundraiser in October, raising money to support breast cancer research during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The Student Nurses Association is a newly formed organization on campus, created shortly after the launch of the university’s pre-nursing program. Pie for a Purpose was one of its first major fundraising efforts and aimed to increase awareness of breast cancer while engaging the student body in a lighthearted but impactful competition.
The premise of the fundraiser was simple: donors could contribute money for the chance to pie participating volunteers, including nursing students, faculty members and professors.
Organizers incorporated College Night into the fundraiser, tying it to one of Montevallo’s most well-known campus traditions. College Night divides students into two competitive sides: Purple and Gold. For this fundraiser, donors were encouraged to contribute on behalf of either side. The side that raised the most money earned the right to pie the leaders of the opposing side.
The competitive spirit drew strong participation. Purple Side raised approximately $150, while Gold Side collected around $250. With the higher total, Gold Side was given the opportunity to pie Purple Side leaders during the event’s finale. The friendly rivalry helped increase turnout and encouraged more students to donate.
Despite the competitive aspect, the event remained focused on its purpose: raising money for breast cancer research and bringing attention to those affected by the disease. Participants and attendees gathered to watch the pieing portion of the event, which took place on campus.
In total, the fundraiser brought in about $600. Proceeds will be donated to organizations that support breast cancer research and awareness efforts. Members of the Student Nurses Association said the event demonstrated the nursing program’s commitment to service and community involvement.
As the nursing program continues to grow, students involved in the association plan to develop more initiatives that support public health causes and campus engagement.
The University of Montevallo continues to expand its academic offerings, including the nursing program, and student organizations such as the Student Nurses Association have played a key role in building campus traditions. Pie for a Purpose marked an early milestone for the group and highlighted the university’s ongoing support for health advocacy and student leadership.
