Hundreds Reach, Rally & Run to Support Student Success

Wake Tech's annual run-walk event raises funds for students facing financial hardships

Apr. 20, 2026 at 3:48pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in warm, earthy tones depicting the blurred silhouettes of runners and walkers on a scenic campus path, capturing the community spirit and energy of the Reach, Rally & Run event.The Reach, Rally & Run event brought the Wake Tech community together to support student success through running, walking, and financial contributions.Today in Raleigh

Nearly 500 runners and walkers participated in Wake Tech's annual Reach, Rally & Run event, which raises funds to provide emergency assistance for students facing unexpected financial challenges and helps them stay enrolled and on track to complete their education.

Why it matters

The event, formerly known as Fostering Footsteps, has expanded its mission to remove barriers and create opportunities for Wake Tech students. By supporting the Wake Tech Foundation's efforts, the community is coming together to ensure financial obstacles don't derail students' educational goals.

The details

The event featured a 10K, 5K, and Fun Mile, with a scenic course through the Scott Northern Wake Campus. Proceeds from the run-walk directly benefit the Wake Tech Care Center and Rally Fund, which provide critical emergency assistance to students. Wake Tech President Dr. Scott Ralls thanked participants and sponsors for supporting the shared goal of student success.

  • The event was held on April 18, 2026.
  • Reach, Rally & Run is an annual event, now in its ninth year.

The players

Dr. Scott Ralls

The president of Wake Tech Community College, who thanked participants and sponsors for supporting student success.

Barbara Hatcher

A participant from Benson, North Carolina, who was invited by a friend and was excited to learn her run would directly benefit students.

Kim Raynor

The donor strategist for the Wake Tech Foundation, who said every step and dollar raised helps students overcome challenges to their education.

Wake Tech Foundation

The organization that cultivates and manages resources critical to Wake Tech's mission, providing scholarships, emergency assistance, academic programs, and student support services.

Rodgers Builders

The presenting sponsor of the Reach, Rally & Run event.

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What they’re saying

“Sometimes students face roadblocks to their dreams and opportunities. By running and walking today, you are supporting our Care Center and Rally Fund so that when students encounter a hurdle, we can reach and rally around them and help clear a path to their success.”

— Dr. Scott Ralls, President, Wake Tech Community College

“I know Wake Tech truly cares about making sure students succeed. I'm really glad I could be part of an event that supports that mission.”

— Barbara Hatcher, Participant

“Every step taken and every dollar raised helps students overcome challenges that might otherwise stand in the way of their education. Thank you for helping us make an impact together.”

— Kim Raynor, Donor Strategist, Wake Tech Foundation

What’s next

The Wake Tech Foundation will continue to manage the resources raised through Reach, Rally & Run to provide emergency assistance and support services that help students stay enrolled and complete their education.

The takeaway

The Reach, Rally & Run event demonstrates the power of community engagement and the shared commitment to student success. By coming together through running, walking, and financial support, the Wake Tech community is ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent students from achieving their educational goals.