The inaugural Pioneer Pursuit held last Saturday at Butler County Community College raised more than $16,000 for scholarships, which include those in memory of recent nursing graduates who died at ages 23 and 26. Submitted Photo

More than 200 runners, walkers and other community members from at least nine Western Pennsylvania counties helped Butler County Community College Sept. 24 in an inaugural event to raise more than $16,000 for scholarships, which include those in memory of recent nursing graduates who died at ages 23 and 26.

The Pioneer Pursuit on BC3’s main campus drew 52 runners, 106 walkers, 35 children runners and 10 yoga participants from Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Blair, Butler, Clarion, Indiana, Mercer and Venango counties.

Proceeds from the 5K race, 1-mile walk, children’s 100-meter dash, sponsorships and a basket raffle benefited BC3 Education Foundation scholarships created by family and friends of Sarah Kasunic in 2019 and of Caitlyn Kaufman in 2020.

“It was an incredible turnout,” said Mikayla Moretti, director of special events with the BC3 Education Foundation. “I was shocked. I think a lot of people were really surprised with it being the first year and by how many people came out. It shows that BC3 is a very good convener and the community support for the two families. The community is behind them.”

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