Albany State University students, faculty and staff will “Paint ASU Pink” during Breast Cancer Awareness Month to promote the significance of finding a cure for the disease that affects thousands nationwide. On Monday, Oct. 20, participants will gather at 11 a.m. on the front lawn of the Academic Building, to form the breast cancer awareness symbol. Everyone joining the commemoration is asked to wear pink. A brief program will be held to honor and acknowledge breast cancer survivors and those who succumbed to the disease.

“It just means so much to know you have the full support of co-workers and friends,” said breast cancer survivor and director of the office of internal audits, Katherine Laster. Laster said her life changed forever after being diagnosed with the disease in July 2009.

“You feel that you’re on an emotional roller coaster when going through breast cancer,” she said, “but having hope and faith is what helps you to become an overcomer.”

This will be the first university-wide event to raise awareness for the illness.

“We are yet in the fight for a cure and we appreciate all that our community is doing, especially this great institution, said Leslie Charles, director of the ASU Office of Admissions who is completing treatment. “We salute ASU as they support us in this awareness effort.”

Albany residents are invited to participate.

For more information, please contact the ASU Office of University Communications at (229) 430-4671.