A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Northern State University Cancer Awareness Tree was earlier this week in Aberdeen, S.D., the culmination of honors thesis project for NSU Honors Program student Teresa Edelman.
Teresa Edelman of Northern State University ties a ribbon on to the campus’ new cancer awareness tree. Edelman is an STMA grad and Albertville native who lost her cousin, Danny, to cancer. (NSU)
Visitors to the tree can tie a ribbon around its branches in honor of those who have fought or are still fighting cancer, and those who have lost their battle.
Raising cancer awareness is a personal goal for Edelman, a native of Albertville, Minn. She lost her 6-year-old cousin, Danny, to high-risk acute myeloid leukemia in 2010.
“I really want this tree to raise awareness and show how prevalent cancer really is,” Edelman said. “It affects so many.”
The Oct. 27 ceremony took place in front of the tree, which is surrounded by a ribbon-shaped walkway and located on the campus green between Graham and Spafford halls.
Edelman spoke at the event, along with NSU President Dr. James Smith. Edelman also tied the first ribbon on the tree. Others in attendance were then invited to tie ribbons on the tree.
The Honors Program will maintain the Northern State University Cancer Awareness Tree after Edelman graduates. The tree will be accessible year round, and members of the Northern and Aberdeen communities are always welcome to use the ribbons provided at the tree to honor someone in their lives.
Information provided by NSU.