Race for Campus Safety Draws Largest Crowd Yet

The annual event honoring Lauren McCluskey continues to expand its reach on the Washington State University campus.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Running

Race for Campus Safety Draws Largest Crowd Yet

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Do you believe community-led events are an effective way to improve safety on your local campus?

The Race for Campus Safety saw its highest participation numbers in 2026, drawing community members to the Washington State University campus. The annual event works to raise awareness for campus safety initiatives and improvements in responding to stalking and relationship violence.

Why it matters

The race serves as a vital fundraiser for the Lauren McCluskey Foundation, honoring the memory of a University of Utah student killed by a stalker. It aims to drive real policy and cultural changes regarding campus safety and relationship violence response.

Participation reached a record high in 2026, marking a significant increase from the 100 to 200 people who joined the inaugural event in 2019.

The players

Lauren McCluskey Foundation

This foundation promotes awareness and improvements in campus safety protocols regarding relationship violence and stalking.

Alpha Chi Omega

This student organization at Washington State University provides volunteers and manages participant registration for the race.

The details

The event, which is supported by the athletic departments at Washington State University and the University of Idaho, enlists volunteers from student groups like Alpha Chi Omega to manage registration. Runners and walkers navigate the course to show solidarity and support for the Lauren McCluskey Foundation.

The Race for Campus Safety began in 2019 at Mary's Park.
The event drew its largest crowd yet in 2026.

Season Trajectory

The race follows a pattern set by the 2018 murder of Lauren McCluskey, using the tragedy as a catalyst for institutional change on university campuses. This continued growth signals an increasing emphasis on community-driven safety advocacy within the regional athletic and academic calendar.

The record turnout requires significant logistical support, impacting how student organizations and athletic departments coordinate campus events annually. Participants contribute directly to the Lauren McCluskey Foundation, which funds ongoing efforts to improve stalking and violence response protocols.

The takeaway

Community participation in advocacy events like this race provides essential support for ongoing safety reforms. Readers can contribute to the mission by volunteering for future runs or donating to foundations dedicated to campus security.