Greater Philadelphia Chapter ALS Association Article

HAVERFORD, Pa. – Cory Walts, Haverford College’s Fitness Center Director & Head Strength and Conditioning Coach, has been named the ALS Association Volunteer of the Month by the Greater Philadelphia Chapter for the month of September.

Walts came to Haverford in 2007 as the Fitness Center Director. As a way to engage the entire campus community, he created the Joe Schwartz ’83 Memorial 3K Run/Walk. Schwartz was four-year participant on the College’s cross country and track & field teams. In 1995, Schwartz was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or as it is often referred to, Lou Gehrig's Disease.

Sadly, Haverford College mourned the loss of Schwartz in the spring of 2008 and he could not see the running of the first race. However, his spirit and passion lived on through the 105 participants that came out to support the inaugural running. Over the first six years of the event, the 3K race raised $23,000 for ALS research. Even with all the success the event has experienced, it shows no signs of slowing down as the 2014 run raised $10,000 dollars. That total was the highest in the history of the event and brings the total amount of money raised for ALS research up to $32,600.

“This honor is a testament to the team effort that has helped turn the Joe Schwartz 3K into a staple in Haverford's spring calendar,” stated Walts. “From the numerous volunteers, to those that have participated in the event, this honor recognizes everyone who has played a role. We will continue to honor Joe Schwartz, Libby Meeks, and all others within the Haverford College community and beyond who have had their lives stricken with ALS.”

You can read the full the article of Walts’ volunteer activities on the ALS Association Greater Philadelphia Chapter website linked above. The 2015 Joe Schwartz ’83 Memorial 3K Run/Walk is set for Sunday, April 26 at 12:30 p.m. on Founders Green.