On Sunday, November 1, alumnus Joshua Michaelis set out to run 36+ miles to Trinity’s campus to raise money for our COVID-19 Relief Fund.
Because Michaelis cherished his time at Trinity, he wanted to give back to the community that fostered his development academically, physically, and spiritually.
Michaelis was inspired by his faith and the soccer teams' tradition, Push Day, which involves a series of high intensity workouts followed by a run where the team carries wooden crosses around campus. Similarly, Michaelis set out on his own #TIUCrossRun, where he decided to carry a wooden cross for the entirety of his journey to campus.
At 5:00 a.m. on Sunday, Michaelis set out from his home in Darien, IL to Trinity’s campus in Deerfield, IL. His initial goal was to run 36 miles and raise $2,000.
“I get so emotional when he does stuff like this,” Michaelis’ wife and fellow TIU alumna Michelle Michaelis said. “It’s incredible to see his love for God and to see his support for a community that we love so much!”
Michaelis wasn’t alone. He had his support system encouraging him throughout his journey. His brother Nathaniel biked to pace and encouraged Michaelis as he ran. Michelle drove along his route to refuel them at each of the six checkpoints.
Around 1:15 p.m., Michaelis arrived at his final destination, the TIU soccer field. Michaelis was greeted by friends, his former soccer coach, Patrick Gilliam, along with President Nicholas Perrin. President Perrin thanked Michaelis for his demonstration of faith and for organizing this fundraiser. To Michaelis’ delight, he surpassed his goal, running 40.12 miles and raising over $3,700.
"This fund helps provide Trinity students with affordable education and a thriving, flexible educational environment where they can grow in Christ while growing in knowledge,” Michaelis said. “I know my time at TIU impacted me and I pray that with the running of this event, I can help TIU continue to impact others.”
"Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." - Matthew 16:24
The money raised is going to the COVID-19 Relief Fund while a small percentage is going to TIU’s soccer programs.