Runners carry the torch for Special Olympics

More than 20 students, campus police officers and other members of the campus community ran in this years’ Law Enforcement Torch Run on June 2. Held annually by Eastern Connecticut State University’s Campus Police Department, the event raises funds for Special Olympics.

Including the torch run, the Eastern Campus Police Department has raised $2,000 thus far this year, $1600 from sponsors that participated in either the Adopt-a-Mile or Adopt-a-Town programs. Their respective signs were posted throughout the run and included Willimantic Dairy Queen, Blondie's Diner, Willimantic Dunkin Donuts, Game Changer Sports Recovery, Norcom Mortgage, M.L. Schmitt Electric and Annie's Driving Range. The rest of the money was from Torch Run registrations and t-shirt sales.

The run started at the Police Department parking lot and ended in Willimantic. Children from Eastern’s Child and Family Resource Center cheered the runners on. Sgt. Lisa Hamilton and Officers Beverley Brown, Lauren Fauchon and Christine Nietupski organized the event. Hamilton, who is retiring on July 1, thanked Joe Salvaggio of Dining Services for his ongoing continuous support with providing water and refreshments for the volunteers.

“I have been involved with Special Olympics my entire police career, starting 35 years ago with the Glastonbury Police Department as a runner,” said Hamilton. “I have been involved in many Torch Runs, Tip-A-Cop events, and kick offs but it has always been fun and rewarding personally and professionally. Special Olympics CT will always hold a special place in my heart. I thank the campus community for their ongoing support. There are many dedicated men and women of the Police Department who will continue to carry on the torch. It’s been a great run.”

Written by Ed Osborn

Categories: Police-Campus Safety, Community Engagement