Otago Polytechnic stands alongside Cancer Society at Ball

Media release – Otago Polytechnic

For immediate release, Friday 22 August

Otago Polytechnic stands alongside Cancer Society at Spring Ball

Otago Polytechnic’s commitment to making a difference to the community it lives in now means it will be standing alongside the Cancer Society’s Otago and Southland Division, becoming the naming rights sponsor of this year’s much anticipated Spring Ball.

To be held on Friday 5 September, the Otago Polytechnic Cancer Society Spring Ball is a major fundraising event for the charity, focusing attention on the community’s efforts to support those affected by cancer and reducing its prevalence for future generations.

It’s a cause Otago Polytechnic is proud to support, says Otago Polytechnic Chief Executive Phil Ker.

“We are a strongly values-driven organisation, and one of the values we explicitly promote is that of ‘caring’. This is not only in terms of the relationships among our students and staff, but with the whole community.”

Ker comments that Otago Polytechnic staff and graduates contribute directly to the care of those with cancer through the Bachelor of Nursing. Social Services and Occupational Therapy programmes also consider aspects around supporting those experiencing illness, while other areas such as a Physical Activity, Health and Wellness degree place an emphasis on preventive activities.

But beyond this, “Our history is built around ensuring we provide the opportunities for our community to gain the skills its needs to achieve its aspirations. Reducing the harm caused by cancer is undeniably a shared goal, and is one we are only too pleased to play a part in.”

Mike Kernaghan, Chief Executive of the Cancer Society, Otago and Southland Division is delighted the Otago Polytechnic has made such a strong commitment to the Cancer Society.

Kernaghan says “Not many people know the Cancer Society is a local organisation delivering free cancer related services to support communities in Otago and Southland. We are very grateful to have the Otago Polytechnic’s support, knowing that they recognise the value of the work we do locally. We are privileged to have them as naming rights sponsor for the Spring Ball this year and I am sure this will be the beginning of a closer and stronger relationship between our organisations. We look forward to working with the Otago Polytechnic more this year and beyond.”

-ENDS-

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