The NC community is joining together this spring in support of a meaningful, local cause, as staff, students and alumni take part in the Rankin Cancer Run.
This year, the NC Knights on the Run team will take part in the annual, family-friendly event, which raises critical funds to support cancer care across the Niagara region.
Participants can choose between a 1 km or 5 km walk/run, making it an accessible and inclusive opportunity for all fitness levels.
Event details:
- Date: Saturday, May 23
- Location: Brock University, St. Catharines
- Start time: 10 a.m.
- Registration: $20 per adult; $10 per student (includes event T-shirt)
Registration is required to participate. Those unable to attend can still show their support by donating to the NC Knights on the Run team to help reach its $2,000 fundraising goal, or by spreading the word across their networks.
To register and join the NC Knights on the Run, click here.
Meet the NC Knights on the Run co-captains Jana Boniferro and Ali Ryder
With a shared passion for community and giving back, co-captains Jana Boniferro, Director, Alumni Relations, and Ali Ryder, Outreach and Education Advisor, are leading the team with plenty of enthusiasm and energy.
Both bring personal connections to the cause and a strong belief in the impact the Rankin Run has across the Niagara region.
“Sadly, I don’t think there is anyone who doesn’t have someone in their lives affected by cancer and I have personally participated in the run a number of times, each time in honour of someone else,” said Boniferro. “It feels good to co-lead this initiative for our colleagues at NC that want to contribute to this worthy cause because of their own unique purpose.”
“As a lifetime resident of Niagara, the Rankin Cancer Run means a great deal to me because all the money raised stays in Niagara,” added Ryder. “We are unfortunately all touched by cancer and losing several friends and my own father to cancer, the money raised at this event is critical in offering excellent care close to home.”
As a runner herself and someone who has used running as an outlet for many years, Boniferro says her connection to the event has evolved over time.
“I now consider it a privilege to move my body,” she said. “Every time a run gets hard, I remember what an honour and privilege it is to be able to move my body not just for myself, but for those who are unable to and those that are no longer with us. Movement is such a gift.”
Both co-captains emphasized the importance of NC’s involvement in supporting the local community through this fundraiser.
“Supporting the Rankin Run means supporting Niagara,” said Boniferro. “Every dollar raised helps people in our own community who need it most.”
Ryder believes the initiative is also an opportunity to build on the College’s strong culture of giving back.
“Many of the volunteers who join me each year for the Rankin Run are from NC, including staff, students and their families,” she said. “So, let’s see how many more members of our community we can get out to take a walk or run together and raise funds for a good cause.”
Beyond fundraising, the pair hope the initiative strengthens connections across the College.
“We hope our participation reflects the kind of community we strive to be, one that shows up, cares deeply and stands together,” said Boniferro. “To every student, employee and alumni participating, we want you to feel it: your college has your back. We’re beside you every step of the way, literally!”
Anyone can participate in the walk or run, regardless of their experience. For those on the fence about joining, Ryder offers simple reassurance:
“I don’t run at all, and I’m doing it!” said Ryder. “It’s all for a great cause. Come out for some fun, fresh air, and let’s make a difference together.”
Support the NC Knights on the Run by donating:
- Click this link and select “Donate to support a participant or team member who has already registered online.”
- Search for Jana Boniferro or Ali Ryder. Note: the search is case sensitive and names must be entered exactly — avoid extra spaces or characters.
Donations to either participant will support the overall team fundraising goal.
