Miami’s Panhellenic Council is hosting the local event and junior Katharine Davies has been part of the Panhellenic community for several year. She is one of the students who will donate her hair, which currently is about 18 inches long. Davies said she has helped raised money for many causes, but she feels like this is a unique opportunity to give something personal.
“Very rarely have I ever been able to really give something of myself that can have such a powerful effect on a woman’s life,” Davies said. “Giving money is great, but I wanted to give hope.”
The Panhellenic Council is a student-run organization that decided to host the event after a competition in The Farmer School of Business, according to junior Marley Balog, who is the event coordinator. This is the first time the university has participated in the event and Balog said Pantene has been very supportive.
The girls who are getting their hair cut off have the option to invite family members or friends to cut off their ponytail, according to Balog. Then, Luna Blu, a local salon in Oxford, will have hairdressers on hand to style each of the girl’s hair.
Davies feels that as college students it’s difficult for them to donate because of their lack of income.
“Not only is this a really tangible way you can change one woman’s battle with cancer, but it’s also easy to feel like, as a college student there’s no way we can help,” Davies said. “And while that sounds kind of scary, it’s such a powerful opportunity and we should be brave enough to take it. Besides, it will grow back, anyway!”
Anyone can show up Sunday and donate hair or just enjoy the event.
“Anybody is welcome to come on Sunday. You don’t have to donate your hair,” Balog said. “It’s a cool, inspirational experience, and there will be a photo booth, a DJ, and food.”
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