Events
Hundreds Reach, Rally & Run to Support Student Success
RALEIGH, N.C. (April 18, 2026) – Nearly 500 runners and walkers laced up their sneakers Saturday to take part in Reach, Rally & Run, Wake Tech's annual run‑walk event supporting student success.
Held at the Scott Northern Wake Campus, the event offered something for everyone, including a 10K, a 5K and a Fun Mile, and featured a scenic course through campus that brought the community together for a meaningful cause.
Led by the Wake Tech Foundation, Reach, Rally & Run benefits students facing unexpected financial hardships. Proceeds provide critical emergency assistance that helps students stay enrolled and on track to complete their education.
Wake Tech President Dr. Scott Ralls thanked participants and sponsors for their support.
"Sometimes students face roadblocks to their dreams and opportunities," said Ralls. "By running and walking today, you are supporting our Care Center and Rally Fund so that, when students encounter a hurdle, we can reach and rally around them and help clear a path to their success."
Formerly known as Fostering Footsteps, the event debuted its new name this year along with an expanded mission focused on removing barriers and creating opportunities for Wake Tech students. Now in its ninth year, Reach, Rally & Run continues to unite employees, students, alumni and community members around the shared goal of supporting student success.
Barbara Hatcher of Benson, who was invited to participate by a friend, finished her 5K near the front of the pack and said she was excited to learn her run would directly benefit students.
"I know Wake Tech truly cares about making sure students succeed," said Hatcher. "I'm really glad I could be part of an event that supports that mission."
"Every step taken and every dollar raised helps students overcome challenges that might otherwise stand in the way of their education," said Kim Raynor, donor strategist for the Wake Tech Foundation. "Thank you for helping us make an impact together."
The Wake Tech Foundation cultivates and manages resources critical to Wake Tech Community College's mission of providing high‑quality, accessible education and training to Wake County residents. Through scholarships, emergency assistance, academic programs and student support services, the Foundation helps ensure financial barriers do not derail students' goals. Donor support helps turn each student's unique story into a success.
Reach, Rally & Run was presented by Rodgers Builders and hosted by Fit & Able in support of the Wake Tech Foundation. To learn more about giving, visit foundation.waketech.edu.
