News Release
Contact
Laurie E. Bick-Jensen
Director,
Public Relations
320 DuPont Highway
New Castle, DE
19720
(302) 295-1164
laurie.e.bick@wilmu.edu
Where the Brave Meet the Cold
WilmU chapter of Pi Gamma Mu prepares to take Rehoboth Beach by storm for Special Olympics Delaware
Most people think of warm things in the cold month of February. But the members and alumni of the Wilmington University chapter of Pi Gamma Mu (PGM) International Honor Society turn their thoughts to sandy Rehoboth Beach and look forward to taking a frigid dip in the icy Atlantic Ocean.
The annual Lewes Polar Bear Plunge at Rehoboth Beach is held on the first Sunday of February in support of Special Olympics Delaware. The WilmU PGM membership, along with current students, faculty, alumni and friends of Wilmington University, have been working to raise funds and keeping the spirit of giving warm in support of this worthy cause in support of their eighth consecutive Plunge.
"WilmU students typically have full time jobs and families to care for," said Dr. Johanna Bishop, Director of Behavioral Science Programs at Wilmington University, and chapter advisor for Pi Gamma Mu at WilmU. "That so many students take time out of their busy lives to plunge, join us on the beach, and otherwise support this effort has been truly amazing! WilmU students have raised over $21,000 since we joined the plunge in 2010 and I'm proud to see this level of dedication to helping Special Olympics Delaware. They help to make our world a better place."
Pi Gamma Mu fundraising efforts contributed over $3,675 to Special Olympics Delaware in 2017. More than 40 people from Wilmington University joined the thousands who came to plunge or watch. Undaunted by the 40 degree water on a sunny day, plungers splashed into the water -- then quickly ran back to warm towels and clothing on the beach.
In 2017 overall, 3,600 participants raised $900,000 for Special Olympics Delaware . Funds raised support the organization's athletic training and competitions for children with intellectual disabilities. The Polar Bear Plunge has been the organization's highest profile fundraising event since 1992.
To contribute to this year's Polar Bear Plunge, or for more information, contact Dr. Johanna Bishop via email to johanna.p.bishop@wilmu.edu, or call (302) 356-6759.
About Wilmington University
Wilmington University is a private, non-profit institution committed to providing career-oriented, traditional and online associate, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs. The Wilmington University difference starts with our flexible, year-round class schedules, full online learning capabilities, and one of the lowest tuitions in the tri-state region. Combined with our intense focus on academic excellence and individualized attention to our students in our degree and certificate programs, the WilmU difference is reflected in our students' achievements and our alumni's successes. For more information, contact Wilmington University at 302-356-INFO (4636), via email at infocenter@wilmu.edu, or visit www.wilmu.edu.
