The Alpha Omicron Pi sorority held their second annual “MADD Dash 5K,” in memory of Beth Boudreaux, Saturday along a route that traveled around Southeastern.

Boudreaux was killed in a drunk driving incident near Southeastern in 2009.  She was a member of Alpha Omicron Pi, and Abbey Smith, who serves as the Philanthropy Chair, believed that this was a great way to remember Boudreaux and make others aware of the dangers of drunk driving.

“Several of Beth’s family members attended the race including her mom, aunt and nephew,” said Smith. “Alpha Omicron Pi communicated regularly with her family while planning the race and they are just so thankful that AOII feels so strongly about the consequences of drinking and driving and that we want everyone to remember Beth.”

Smith said that there were over 250 participants to sign up for the fundraiser.  All of the proceeds went to the Baton Rouge chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).

“I am proud to announce that we raised right around $4,500 to be donated to MADD,” said Smith. “We all feel like the race was a huge success and we are so appreciative of all the support we received from other organizations on campus such as PEEPS and fellow Greek sororities and fraternities.”

The first female to finish the race was Shelby Scharfenstein, a freshman Alpha Omicron Pi member.

“I don’t usually run, but when I do, I run like Forrest Gump,” said Scharfenstein.

The race route took participants around Southeastern’s campus, starting and ending at the Greek Village.  Along the route, water stations were set up for runners.  Working one of these stations was Alice Harris, a freshman education major, who described some of the runners as they rounded the corner.

“Everybody had smiles on their faces, it was so touching to see as everyone rounded the corner,” said Harris.  “It was a great feeling.”

Before and after the race, participants were able to enjoy the day with refreshments and a disc jockey provided.  The sorority plans on making the run bigger for next year, wanting everyone to come out and support a memorable cause.

“Beth’s mother, Lisa Boudreaux, is excited that the 5K is now an annual event,” said Smith. “She also submitted several pictures and newspaper articles about Beth to be used for a board that was displayed at the race. We are planning for MADD Dash to be even bigger and better next year.”