REESE VERLINDE
Sickle Cell Walk & Roll
THE CANCER & HEMATOLOGY CENTERS
Host Organization: *Sickle Cell Task Force
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Location: UofM Health Cancer Center, Wyoming, MI
Role: Marketing Lead & Volunteer Photographer
*(Corewell, UofM Health, The Cancer & Hematology Centers, Mary Freebed, Children's Healing Center, Trinity, Grand Rapids African American Health Institute)
Description:
The Sickle Cell Walk & Roll is a community event dedicated to raising awareness, supporting individuals affected by sickle cell disease, and bringing the community together. Featuring a 1-mile walk, family-friendly activities, food, music, and community partners, the event encourages participants to show their support while promoting education, advocacy, and connection.
Advancements in Blood Cancer Seminar
THE CANCER & HEMATOLOGY CENTERS
Host Organization: The Cancer & Hematology Centers
Date: Monday, July 27, 2026
Location: CHC at Lemmen-Holten Cancer Pavilion, Grand Rapids, MI
Role: Event Coordinator & Marketing Lead
Description:
The Advancements in Blood Cancer Seminar is a community education event hosted by The Cancer & Hematology Centers. CHC's malignant hematologists discuss blood cancers, signs and symptoms, treatment options, CAR T-cell therapy, and the latest clinical trial advances, giving attendees the opportunity to learn from experts and ask questions about blood health and available care.
Panelist Speakers:
Andrew Sochacki, MD
Michael McLane, MD,
Colin Hardin, MD
Relay for life Muskegon: Toon Out Cancer
THE CANCER & HEMATOLOGY CENTERS
Host Organization: American Cancer Society
Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026
Location: Mona Shores High School, Muskegon, MI
Role: Sponsor & Resource Table (CHC)
Description:
Relay For Life Community is a volunteer-led group where participants can connect, share fundraising ideas, ask questions, and support one another. The group fosters collaboration and inspiration while helping members make a greater impact in the fight against cancer.
2026 Theme: Toon Out Cancer
Colon Cancer Seminar
THE CANCER & HEMATOLOGY CENTERS
Host Organization: The Cancer & Hematology Centers
Date: Monday, March 23, 2026
Location: CHC-Kenmoor, Grand Rapids, MI
Role: Event Coordinator & Marketing Lead
Description:
The Colon Cancer Seminar is a community education event hosted by The Cancer and Hematology Centers. Topics include colon cancer risk factors, screening, prevention, and treatment, providing attendees with the opportunity to learn about the importance of early detection and ask questions.
Panelist Speakers:
Sreenivasa R. Chandana, MD, PhD
Zabila Saeed, MD
Eric C. Santos, MD
MSU Idol
THEY'RE SO DRAMATIC | MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
Host Organization: They're So Dramatic
Date: Sunday, January 29, 2023
Location: MSU Auditorium (Studio 60), East Lansing, MI
Role: Event Coordinator, Marketing Lead, & Performer
Description:
MSU Idol is an annual American Idol-style fundraiser hosted by They're So Dramatic (TSD), a theatre organization at Michigan State University led by women and non-binary students. The event features judges from other MSU theatre groups, including Second Stage Productions, Roial Players, and Diggin', and gives students a chance to perform without the time commitment of a full production while raising funds for TSD.
Inspired by Delton Idol, a community talent competition I attended in 2022, I created MSU Idol to bring a similar experience to campus. The event has run successfully for three consecutive years, growing and improving each year while creating memorable opportunities for student performers.
