SodexoMagic and Grambling Mark the Season with Turkey Trot and Campus Wellness Events
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Posted By: Jennifer Toone Corrigan on November 12, 2025 This fall at Grambling State University has been filled with energy and collaboration through a new 5K race initiative bringing students, faculty, and staff together around health and community. Led by Roxanne Greenaway, Marketing Coordinator, Grambling Dining Services, in partnership with several campus organizations, the series began with the Juneteenth Freedom Run, continued with the Breast Cancer Awareness 5K, and concluded this week with the seasonal Turkey Trot — a spirited event that drew more than 60 participants. "The Turkey Run delivered fun and excitement every step of the way,” said Nicole Dupre, General Manager, Grambling Dining Services. “Thanks to the collaboration between SGA, FSUB, and Campus Living & Housing, this event was a spirited and fun way to embrace the fall season. It was also a mindful way to get fit and healthy before the Thanksgiving feasts. We’re excited to see this tradition continue and look forward to the next one—truly a display of SodexoMagic.” The 5K series reflected strong cooperation between SodexoMagic and several Grambling departments. The SodexoMagic Marketing and Management Team organized the races, provided t-shirts, hydration stations with fruit, snacks, and Powerade, and supplied medals, trophies, and giveaways. They also designed all promotional materials and event graphics. The Office of Campus Living & Housing handled route planning, volunteer coordination, and communication with residents, while the Favrot Student Union Board (FSUB) led student outreach and on-site registration. The Student Government Association (SGA) contributed additional race-day support and student representation. Together, these groups built steady participation and awareness, strengthening campus connections through shared goals of fitness and involvement. "We had such a great time at the Turkey Run from beginning to end,” said Carnelia Barfield, Director, Campus Living & Housing. “It was a fun and energizing way to celebrate the season, and our department is already looking forward to the next one.” The Turkey Trot capped the semester’s wellness efforts with a lighthearted competition that captured the spirit of the season. In the days leading up to the event, students took to social media to engage with “Tommy the Turkey,” a SodexoMagic team member who appeared in videos wearing an inflatable turkey costume, challenging runners to see if they could outrun him. Race day brought cool weather, good humor, and plenty of enthusiasm. Participants received medals, category awards, and the event trophy, while enjoying healthy snacks and giveaways at the finish line. The event drew strong attendance from students, faculty, and staff, and quickly became a topic of conversation both on campus and online. "The Turkey Run was a wonderful way to celebrate the season and come together,” said Life Makarudze, SGA Vice President. “It was inspiring to see students, faculty, staff, and the community stay active, support one another, and enjoy the spirit of fall. Events like this really highlight the power of collaboration and school pride, and I’m excited for the next one!" The 5K series carried meaningful themes throughout the semester. The Breast Cancer Awareness 5K encouraged participants to run or walk in honor of loved ones affected by cancer and shared educational resources, while the Juneteenth Freedom Run kicked off the initiative by connecting wellness to unity and history. With two additional races planned for spring, the program’s momentum continues to grow. Thanks to Roxanne Greenaway’s leadership and the ongoing collaboration between SodexoMagic and Grambling departments, the university has established a new seasonal tradition — one that connects wellness, community engagement, and campus pride. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Jennifer Toone Corrigan
Founder , In Toone Communication Member Since March 2025 |
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