Delta Phi Epsilon raises money for cystic fibrosis

By Brianna Wallen

News Editor

Lights illuminate the stage illuminated with Barbie wallpaper lining the wall. Contestants lined up to showcase their talent to the audience all for a good cause.  

Delta Phi Epsilon sorority hosted their annual Deepher Dude event on Thursday Nov. 14. 

This fall tradition brings in donations and awareness for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation by uniting students. Kara Satalino, board member of CFF, has a daughter who is impacted by cystic fibrosis.  

“Without generous people like you who care to find a cure, we wouldn’t have the donations and the fundraising that goes into the science,” Satalino said. 

Satalino said that fundraising goes a long way, as the money raised from fundraising allowed her daughter to receive the closest medicine to a cure.

“When she was able to get on the medicine, we saw improvement,” Satalino said.  

To raise money, contestants competed to seize the crown in a competition of the Kens. 

Political science and history education major CJ Sheehy, a senior, communication disorders major Zach Thornton, a senior, environmental systems and sustainability major Joe Bradford, a freshman and art and design major James Conover, a freshman, and an outside contestant, Jalen Simms, all took the Barbie World stage.  

Each contestant was coached by a member of the Delta Phi Epsilon sorority. In front of three judges, each Ken had to compete in various categories, such as swimwear and talent.  

Guests tuned into an unforgettable night filled with high energy philanthropy, as selected sisters of Delta Phi Epsilon coached their own Kens. 

President of Delta Phi Epsilon, Emily Weiner, an English major and senior, said collaborating with CFF was the highlight of her night. 

“Anything that goes towards finding a cure and funding research is really important,” Weiner said, “especially working together as a team to bring the event together and raise awareness for cystic fibrosis.”  

The inherited disease is typically detected during a baby’s first few days of life. 

According to CFF, there are around 40,000 people with cystic fibrosis in the United States.  

Satalino said that fundraising events can help to save the lives of those affected by cystic fibrosis. 

“If we don’t have anyone to listen to our stories, we can’t make change,” Satalino said. 

During the Ken competition, Satalino and Joseph Rosano, a CFF board member and pharmacist, shared their personal stories and offered insights to the event’s audience. 

“It’s really important to volunteer all actors from around the globe and connect with people and understand their stories,” Rosano said. “It is also important to donate. Every dollar counts.” 

In addition to making donations, attendees had the opportunity to purchase refreshments throughout the event, with all proceeds going to CFF. 

Whether it was Ken Maid Zach Thornton, rocking out to metal music or Teacher Ken Jalen Simms showing his flawless moves, the crowd was in high spirits.  

The event was tied together as Simms was crowned.  

Satalino said she was touched by everyone who came out and those who donated. 

“You don’t have a DNA connection like I do, which makes it even more special that you’re here and you care,” Satalino said. “So, thank you so much!”