UMSL alum Samuel Fredeking runs past the Recreation and Wellness Center with his son on his shoulders during the UMSL 5K in 2023. (Photo courtesy of University Advancement)

By Kala Dunn, University Advancement

Samuel Fredeking is the vice president of the University of Missouri–St. Louis Alumni Association Governing Board. He is also a loyal participant in the UMSL 5K, which celebrates its fifth year this fall.

“I have attended every single UMSL 5K with the exception of last year’s, when I was in Denver for a wedding – but I made sure that morning to run my 5K anyway!” he said.

The annual 3.1-mile race around UMSL’s North Campus inspires this kind of dedication among its runners and walkers, which include both alumni and non-alumni of the university. The course winds through gently rolling hills, showcasing beloved campus buildings and picturesque locations along the way. Alumni and friends will pass by signature spots like the Millennium Student Center Bridge, the Mark Twain Athletic Center, the Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center, the Thomas Jefferson Library and others.

UMSL Alumni Association board member and 5K committee member Melissa Anson noted that runners and walkers this year also have a chance to see the exciting progress being made on UMSL’s campus.

“There are a lot of changes happening on campus,” she said, referencing transformational projects such as the construction of the Richter Family Welcome and Alumni Center, the renovation of the J.C. Penney Building for the College of Optometry and the renovation of the Arts Administration Building. “It’s great for alumni to get back on campus and see the updates.”

Both Anson and Fredeking commented on the laid-back atmosphere of the event and the fun of participating with family and friends.

“We’ve made it a family affair,” Fredeking said. “It’s a great time for my wife and I, who are both UMSL alums, to reconnect with the university and spend some time there. And whether you’re involved with UMSL or not, it’s a great family event.”

Anson recalled a race from a few years ago: “The second year I participated, my sister had to arrive late, so I waited for her and we powerwalked it together. Some people really run it – they’re sprinting it, even with the hills – but some people have their strollers and are leisurely walking. It’s really nice that it has such a no-pressure positive vibe. It’s a fun atmosphere.”

The race also involves local organizations and companies who sponsor the event. Sponsor benefits include complimentary race entries, tabling opportunities, logo displays and more. This year’s lead sponsors include Edward Jones, CommunityAmerica Credit Union and Central Bank and Central Trust.

“From a business perspective, it’s a great way to get connected with potential future employees, it’s a great way to get connected with likeminded businesses, and it’s a great way to reconnect with the university you may have graduated from and find out how they might assist your business,” Fredeking said.

The fifth-annual UMSL 5K will be held Sat., Oct. 18, beginning at 8:30 a.m. All participants receive a race T-shirt, a medal and other Triton-themed treats. Registration and sponsorship details are available at runsignup.com by searching for “UMSL 5K.”