I'm long-time removed from college life, Tim, but some ideas for any survivor reception...

1. Build the program around Celebrate, Remember, Fight Back. Since your attendees are likely getting their first exposure to Relay, this is a good, understandable structure. Celebrate by having a survivor welcome the guests. Have them welcome the survivors to the front of the room and pin a carnation or other token of honor to recognize them. Briefly explain how we Remember through the luminaria ceremony and light a candle. Hold off on Fight Back until after dinner, when you introduce ODU's Relay plans; ask for pledges to Fight Back with commitments to start / join / support a team. Send 'em home pumped to make ODU a Relay champ.

2. Use networking to reach out to attendees. Start with your ODU Relay Commitee and challenge every one to come up with five survivor names from three circles...immediate friends, a social group, and faculty/staff. You'll be amazed how the numbers add up. Then, advertise the heck out of the program through usual social event channels and follow up with identified survivors with invitations. Erin can get you Relay cards to use.

3. Show everyone the passion that is the hallmark of being a Relayer. It's a sad truth that several of your ODU friends have been touched by cancer. When someone's parent is touched, think of how better prepared they will be to support their family as a Relayer aware of the ACS resources and in touch with the power of hope.

Thanks for your leadership in the Virginia college Relay community, Tim.

/Rick