GSW Homecoming race raises over $5K in scholarships in memory of late William Reid

AMERICUS, GA (March 28, 2022) – The Alumni Association at Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) raised $5,300 in scholarships in memory of the late William Reid at its annual 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run held Saturday, February 5 culminating Homecoming Week.

William, a GSW alumnus, died in a tragic biking accident on September 18, 2021. His wife DeAnn Young Reid is also an alumna, former softball player, and 1999 inductee into the GSW Athletic Hall of Fame. William’s son Blake, Blake’s wife Emmy, and his daughter Andi are GSW alumni as well. They, along with many friends and family, were present at the race to thank everyone for their participation and support of what William held dear – his family, education, and his love of running. William and DeAnn were known for their weekend 5Ks together. William took first in his age group at last year’s race during GSW’s Homecoming. 

In keeping with the Homecoming theme of “Alice in Wonderland”, the race was called the Rabbit Hole Dash and its logo gave a nod to the literary classic and incorporated the initials WR on the pocket watch which held the time of 1:15, a reference to GSW’s 115^th Anniversary. Despite frigid temperatures, a record number of runners from all over arrived to participate and show their support for both the University and the Reid family. 

All proceeds from the Rabbit Hole Dash were donated to the Alumni Legacy Scholarship in honor of the William Reid family and in William’s memory. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, supporters, and runners, the event raised $5,300 for scholarships at GSW.

Pictured L-R: Blake Reid, Alli Reid, DeAnn Reid, Andi Reid, GSW Foundation Executive Director Stephen Snyder, and Alumni Affairs Specialist Angela Smith