FAIRMONT, W.Va. – Friendly competition and community spirit filled Prickett’s Fort State Park as children took part in Monty’s Mini Mile before runners and walkers headed onto the Mon River Rail-Trail for Pierpont Community & Technical College’s inaugural Fall in Love with Health 5K. More than a race, the event brought together families, healthcare professionals, and community supporters to invest in Pierpont students’ future.
Held in partnership with the Marion County Running & Walking Club (MCRWC), the event drew 41 registered participants and raised support for scholarships and student success initiatives benefiting students in Pierpont’s School of Health Sciences through the Pierpont Foundation.
Organized by the School of Health Sciences, the event was created to promote healthy living while helping students overcome financial barriers as they prepare to enter the healthcare workforce.
“The response from the community was incredible,” said Miki DeMary-Andrew, Clinical Coordinator of Pierpont’s Licensed Practical Nursing program. “Every dollar raised helps support our students, whether that’s assisting with the cost of licensure exams or helping meet other needs they face while completing their education. Those resources can have a meaningful impact on a student’s journey to graduation and beyond.”
The event’s family-friendly format welcomed participants of all ages. Children tackled obstacle challenges during Monty’s Mini Mile, while runners and walkers enjoyed a scenic course along the Mon River Rail-Trail. Throughout the morning, participants gathered with friends, family members and supporters who came out to cheer them on and contribute to the cause.
Jennifer Reed, an instructor in Pierpont’s Licensed Practical Nursing Program, said the event reflected the same community-centered values students experience throughout their education.
“Our students enter healthcare because they want to make a difference in the lives of others,” Reed said. “Events like this demonstrate the strength of community support behind them while helping ensure they have the resources they need to reach their goals and serve others in return.”
The Marion County Running & Walking Club provided race timing, course management and volunteer support, helping launch the event’s successful inaugural year. The race was also part of the 2026 Marion County Race Series.
“With 142 members, we take pride in showing up for our community, not only as runners and walkers, but as volunteers, supporters, and advocates for local causes,” said April Perno, Race Coordinator of MCRWC. “We strive to create a welcoming environment for people of all fitness levels and backgrounds, where everyone can find connection, encouragement and a place to belong. At the heart of our club is the belief that every mile can carry a purpose, and that by working together, we can make a meaningful difference in the community we call home.”
Participants traveled from communities across North Central West Virginia to take part in the event. Brian Narog of Grafton was the overall winner, completing the course in 21:04.08. Stefanie Moore of Clarksburg was the first female finisher and placed second overall with a time of 21:20.72, followed by Christopher Hedio of Fairmont in third place at 21:29.43.
For organizers, however, the most meaningful numbers extended beyond race results.
“This event showed what can happen when a community comes together around a shared purpose,” Reed said. “We were excited by the support we received in our first year and we’re already looking forward to building on that momentum and welcoming even more participants next year.”
Organizers plan for Fall in Love with Health 5K and Monty’s Mini Mile to become an annual tradition, continuing to promote wellness, strengthen community connections and support the next generation of healthcare professionals throughout the region.
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View the Race Results.
Pierpont Community & Technical College provides accessible, responsive, and high‑quality education to students and businesses across North Central West Virginia. With a strong focus on career readiness and workforce development, Pierpont offers academic programs and industry‑aligned training that create clear pathways to employment. Through this work, the college helps students discover their path while supporting the region’s economic and workforce needs.
The Marion County Running and Walking Club’s mission is to support local organizations in their efforts to raise funds for charitable causes throughout our community. We provide free marketing for races in our series and offer low-cost race timing services to help organizations maximize their fundraising profits and make the biggest impact possible.
Media Contact:
Stefanie Moore, Director of Marketing and Communications
Pierpont Community & Technical College
Office of Marketing and Communications
communications@pierpont.edu