Bentley University Students Shaving Heads For Cancer Research

WALTHAM, MA — A group of Bentley University students in the fraternity Sigma Chi are running a biennial semester-long campaign to raise money for the Huntsman Cancer Foundation, pledging to shave their heads for various fundraising amounts at an event on Monday, March 28.

The Huntsman Cancer Foundation is a National Cancer Institute–Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, which means it achieves the highest standards for cancer care and research, and has become one of the best cancer hospitals in the world since its founding in 1995.

“Everybody’s really had a loved one that has been affected by cancer,” said Sigma Chi senior Jack Flaherty. “This is our first opportunity to have a real impact and use our platform and passion to make change."

Sigma Chi members have a goal of raising $60,000 to help with the foundation’s endeavors, with every single penny going directly towards cancer research. The students are already over $56,000 and have no intention of slowing down the campaign.

“There are guys in the chapter whose family members have been impacted by cancer and it's definitely something that is so universal,” said Sigma Chi senior Nathan Michalek. “It's such a profound thing in society so anything we can do to help that is a step closer.”

Over 50 students plan to shave their heads at Monday’s event, which will be held from 9:15 to 11:15 p.m. at LaCava EDR. Over 20 businesses are sponsoring the event, food will be provided by Jake n JOES, and there will be music and raffles.

Sponsors of the event include Waltham’s Finest, Flynn Zito Capital Management, Heidi’s, Jake n Joes, Orange Theory, Joco’s Bar and Kitchen, Carl’s Steak Subs, Enzina Pizza, Wilson’s Diner, Roots to Rise, Shaw’s, Bits & Bites, Chipotle, 3 Fortunes, Edible Arrangements, Not Your Average Joes, Shoppers Café, The Chateau, John Brewers Tavern, Josephs Two, Bistro 781, 99 Restaurant, Sweet Basil, and Lizzy’s Ice Cream.

“We want to thank all of the local businesses who were gracious to provide us with raffle donations and help us raise the amount of money that we have,” said Michalek.

If the students reach their $60,000, Bentley police officer Travis Rixford has volunteered to shave his head alongside the students.

To donate to Sigma Chi’s campaign for the Huntsman Cancer Foundation, click here.