Oakwood University president Delbert W. Baker finished the Desert Salt Lake City Marathon in four hours and 19 minutes on Thurs., July 24, checking off Utah as number 23 on his 50-state marathon goal that began as a personal fitness challenge some years ago. This puts Baker right on schedule for 2008, having completed seven marathons in seven months since the year began.

That personal challenge took on a much broader scope on July 1 when the Division of Advancement & Development at Oakwood University (OU) officially launched the institution's 50 States for Students Annual Fund Campaign. The campaign runs through June 30, 2009.

To date, alumni, friends and supporters of OU have donated more than $28,000 toward the 50 States for Students campaign by sponsoring the marathons in amounts ranging from $1 to $1,000 per mile (a marathon is 26.2 miles). Expenses related to the marathons are underwritten by Florida Hospital (in Orlando) and the CREATION Lifestyle Model. This sponsorship allows 100 percent of donations to go directly to student scholarships and endowment.

Anyone can get in on the race to turn miles into scholarships by sponsoring a marathon. Call in your pledge today at 256-726-7584, or go online to www.oakwood.edu. All pledges are tax-deductible and will go toward supporting Christian education and tomorrow's leaders.

Michele Solomon, director of public relations, Oakwood University (adapted)