Central College will kick off its annual Hoo-Rah Day celebration with the launch of the 1853 Challenge, an energizing call to action that invites the Central community to let their gifts and service take flight in doing a world of good.
The 1853 Challenge begins 53 days before Hoo-Rah Day and runs from Sunday, Feb. 15, until Wednesday, April 8. During that time, participants are encouraged to commit to completing 18 hours of service and/or tracking 53 miles by walking, running, biking or swimming. The service component was added in 2025 to celebrate the World of Good comprehensive campaign and Central’s commitment to service.
“At the heart of a Central education is caring for others and for ourselves,” says Mary Benedict, director of stewardship and engagement. “Our alumni, students and friends live that out every day. The 1853 Challenge is a chance to come together, lift each other up and let our service and generosity take flight in a really visible way. When we move with purpose and serve with heart, we create something powerful.”
Central students, employees, alumni, family and friends can join the challenge by registering at central.edu/alumni/challenge and printing a log sheet. Record hours of service to others and healthy movement as a way to celebrate what it means to be part of Central. Participants are encouraged to share their journey and Central pride on social media by tagging Central and using #1853CentralChallenge.
Completed challenge sheets must be submitted to the Central Advancement Office by Thursday, April 9, to be entered into a prize drawing from the Spirit Shoppe. Individuals who complete both service and wellness portions of the challenge will be entered for a larger prize!
Challenge sheets may be emailed to Benedict at benedictm@central.edu. They may also be mailed to or dropped off at the Central Advancement Office in Central Hall, located at 812 University St., Campus Box 5200, Pella, Iowa, 50219.
