Moving Through Movember at Saint Francis

Moving Through Movember at Saint Francis

It’s November – that means that some of the male students and faculty and staff members at SFU and around the world are growing out their facial hair for a good cause.

“Movember” is a national movement that raises awareness and funds for men’s health issues, including prostate and testicular cancer.

Despite the fact that millions of men will be diagnosed with these types of cancers in their lifetime, awareness and levels of understanding are low compared to other forms of cancer.

“There are several areas of the University participating in the Movember initiative,” said John Miko, the associate dean of SFU’s School of Business and the driving force behind the Movember Movement at the University. “The Theta Fraternity leads the initiative among students and Greek life and holds a variety of events, while faculty, staff members and athletic programs also play large roles.”

This year, the Theta Fraternity sponsored a video game tournament and an “MVP Night.” On Friday, Nov. 20, the fraternity will be holding its annual Movember 3-on 3-basketball Tournament in the Auxiliary Gym at the Stokes Center. All are invited to participate.

At halftime of the SFU men’s basketball team’s game against Lehigh on Dec. 2, a “Mr. Movember” will be crowned. The award will go to the Movember participant with the “best” facial hair.

Midway through the month, SFU’s Movember Team had raised a little over $1,000 toward fighting male cancers.

This year’s Movember Movement hits close to home for Miko.

“I lost my father and role model this year to cancer, so it really holds a special meaning to me.”

Movember is also a time for memorable experiences and funny moments.

“There are many examples of people who have shaved beards and moustaches that they have had for years to participate, and there are others that grow rather poorly – that’s the fun in it,” said Miko.

“The results can be comical, but they all do their part in raising awareness.”