2023 Alpha Phi Thankful 5k

The Thankful 5k is a race dedicated to bringing together the Zeta Iota chapter of Alpha Phi, family members, and the greater UVA and Charlottesville communities in honor of Shelley Goldsmith and Casey Schulman, two inspiring members of Alpha Phi at UVA. All funds raised for the 5k are donated to foundations and scholarships in their names, which support students seeking or enrolled in higher education. The Shelley Goldsmith Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a Jefferson Scholars Foundation candidate from Southwest Virginia who made it to the final selection round. The Casey Schulman Foundation was started as a non-profit with the mission of awarding a college scholarship to Justice High School students who carry on Casey's spirit. This year's race will include an in-person 5k on Grounds as well as a weekend-long virtual component; we invite all friends and family of Alpha Phi at UVA to support Thankful through the virtual race if they are unable to come to Charlottesville. 

The Thankful 5k's name is inspired by the handmade "Thankful" sign that Casey kept above her bed. After Casey passed away in 2012, her sisters in Alpha Phi held the first Thankful 5k in honor of her uncanny ability to inspire kindness and gratitude. The race now also honors Shelley, whom our chapter lost a year later. "Thankful" represents how Casey approached the world with positivity and interest and the spirit of our chapter's annual celebration of her and Shelley's lasting legacies. 

The University of Virginia expects parents or guardians to provide supervision over minors on University property during this event. Parents or guardians should not leave minors unsupervised on University property. This is not a drop-off event.