It’s not too late to register! Help us offer more scholarships to students.

June 8, 2016

Running for Our Future 5K honors former NSWC Crane Commander, raises thousands so far for STEM scholarships. WestGate@Crane, Ind. - June 9, 2016 - The third annual Running for Our Future (RFOF) 5K is projected to raise thousands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) scholarships Saturday, June 11, but we could offer more. RFOF 5K is in honor of former NSWC Crane Commander Chuck LaSota. LaSota was instrumental in furthering STEM education in the communities surrounding Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division. He also helped advance the growth of WestGate Academy Conferencing & Training Center,WestGate@Crane Technology Park, and Battery Innovation Center. Wife of the late Chuck LaSota, Teresa, says Chuck dedicated his life to giving back to the community and to STEM education. 'If we were going to stay a world leader we have to have young people going into Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. It is critical to go forward and remain strong.' Teresa says that some students may not even know they enjoy STEM fields because they may not be exposed to STEM activities and career options. The purpose of the race is to raise money and awareness for STEM education, regional STEM opportunities, and careers. All proceeds from the race go toward STEM focused scholarships that will be given away at the WestGate@Crane College Fair October 3, 2016. Last year, $3,000 of scholarship money was awarded to winning students. RFOF 5K Organizer Alex Jackson says registration is still open for runners and walkers. 'Don't miss out on this chance to change the lives of students in this region! People of all ages are invited to participate in the race to help expand resources to our area students. We hope to provide opportunities to students seeking to further their education in these necessary fields.' Chuck LaSota passed away in January of last year. Last year's Running for Our Future 5K was the first race dedicated to him and his work to grow STEM education in the region. RFOF is a 3.1-mile course that starts at WestGate Academy, goes through WestGate@Crane Technology Park, and turns around at the Battery Innovation Center. Online registration continues through Friday evening and race day registration starts at 8:00am. The race start time is 9:00am and runners will be officially timed. To register, click here: http://bit.ly/RFOF5K2016