WSSU to host annual cancer awareness event to highlight diversity of cancer types

Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is working to broaden awareness about the wide range of cancers affecting individuals worldwide. As part of this effort, the university will host its third annual two-day cancer awareness event, “Rams: Thriving Together Stronger than Ever,” on March 20-21.

The event will feature a variety of activities, including panel discussions, guest speakers, a “paint n chat” session, and a community walk/run – all designed to educate participants and foster a supportive environment for cancer awareness and advocacy.

Dr. Cassandra Wineglass, WSSU associate professor of healthcare management and director of the university’s CEO Roundtable on Cancer efforts, emphasized the importance of increasing awareness of all cancer types.

“It is crucial to highlight the full spectrum of cancers because many people are only familiar with a few,” Wineglass said. “Bringing awareness to all cancer types helps identify areas that require more focus, particularly when examining data related to the African American population.”

Through this initiative, WSSU aims to encourage conversations, enhance understanding, and promote proactive health measures within the community.

Thursday, March 20
The program Thursday will be held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in Room 100 of the Donald J. Reaves Student Activities Center on the WSSU campus.

It will feature a panel discussion and keynote speaker, Arthur Hardin. Hardin is an academic success counselor in University College at WSSU, where he advises and mentors student-athletes, supports students on academic probation, and plays an integral role in their academic and personal development.

Hardin and his wife, Tammy, are both cancer survivors. Tammy recently completed treatment for breast cancer, and Arthur has undergone radiation for prostate cancer. Through their journey, they have pledged to share their experiences to inspire and support others facing similar challenges.

This program will also pay tribute to the late Robert Myers of WSSU Housing and Residence Life. Myers died Jan. 20, 2025, of pancreatic cancer. There will be a slideshow of pictures, a poem reading and a plaque presented to his family. 

The “paint n chat” will begin at 11 a.m. and will be different than from previous activities, Wineglass said. 

“We will have ribbons made from wood that will be painted white on one side and the back of the ribbon will be used to scribe an encouraging word, a signature, or something that will encourage the patient on their lung cancer journey to continue to fight because we are supporting them,” she said. Information will also be distributed about lung cancer.

The cancer awareness walk/run begins at noon, and the celebration of life at 1 p.m.

The celebration of life is like a huge party, Wineglass said. “We will have music and dancing and encourage those that are on their journey to continue to fight. I know some crying will transpire but this is what happens during this time. This is our opportunity to celebrate our survivors and remember those that have gained their wings on their cancer journey.”

It’s all about awareness. “Awareness brings us to a place where we can educate ourselves on all cancers, family history and/or the effects of long-term exposure to specific chemicals. Being armed with the proper information provides a better opportunity for longer life spans, early detection, better communication with patient and health care providers and ultimately the creation of better policies for cancer prevention,” Wineglass said.

“Additionally, it is an opportunity to celebrate survivors, honor those we have lost, and inspire a movement for health equity and wellness for all,” she said.

All events are free, but registration is required by calling (336) 750-3394.

WSSU is a CEO Cancer Gold Standard Accredited university of the CEO Roundtable on Cancer, which means that as an employer, it is committed to building a healthier workplace by focusing on cancer risk reduction, early detection, access to clinical trials and high-quality care.