Major: Biological sciences
Students Together Against Cancer (STAC) is devoted to helping local cancer patients. In late 2021, the group hit a major milestone: their 100th donation to a Lincolnite diagnosed with cancer.
Senior biology major Sarah Hoagland is the president of STAC. Having been involved with the organization since high school, she has seen the group donate thousands of dollars over the years.
"I am really proud to be a part of a nonprofit organization like [STAC], because I think it's really impressive that a group of 18 to 22 year olds have been running a nonprofit now since 2012," Sarah said.
All STAC donations cover bills for cancer patients with financial need. Through gift cards to grocery stores or direct checks made to utility companies, STAC gives cancer patients one less thing to worry about.
"I think a lot of cancer related organizations focus on finding a cure, and we focus on everyday problems. So, you know, making the choice of paying for your cancer treatment or having dinner — I don't think that that's a choice that someone should have to make," Sarah said. "We try to alleviate some of those everyday stresses in someone's life so that they can focus more on healing and being with their family, and not having to worry about those smaller things."
For Sarah, one of the best things about being involved in STAC is meeting the patients they serve. She estimates that the group has given 30 donations since she's been a part of it and that she has been on the team that has personally met with recipients at least five times.
"I've met with patients, and I really know the impact that STAC is making on people in the community...they could be your neighbors, you never know," Sarah said.
