The Colorado Mesa University Hockey team was recently honored with the first-ever President’s Award from Intermountain St. Mary’s Regional Hospital. The award was presented at the St. Mary’s Ball to recognize the team’s fundraising efforts for the St. Mary’s Cancer Assistance Fund through the annual Pink the Rink Fundraiser.
The hospital introduced the President’s Award this year to recognize individuals or groups who make a difference in the community and inspire others to do the same. Rather than giving out the award annually, it will only be presented when a candidate embodies the qualities and achievements that the award represents.
"In presenting this award, St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation recognizes the many CMU hockey players, both past and present, for their tireless efforts and dedication to raising cancer awareness and donations to the St. Mary’s Cancer Assistance Fund," said President of Intermountain St. Mary’s Regional Hospital Bryan Johnson. "They continue to exemplify the spirit of community service and teamwork by partnering with St. Mary’s and our community to provide a beacon of hope for those fighting cancer."
Since its start seven years ago, CMU Hockey’s Pink the Rink fundraiser has brought in more than $132,000 for charitable causes in Grand Junction. At their most recent Pink the Rink, they raised a record-breaking $32,128 for the St. Mary’s Cancer Assistance Fund.
"We use the game of hockey, which has given us so much joy and happiness over our own lifetimes, to give back to something bigger than ourselves through our charity work for the local community,” said CMU Men’s Hockey Coach and Associate Professor of History Timothy Winegard, PhD. “I’m always so proud of my players. This award is a reflection of their hard work and tireless efforts. We would like to thank St. Mary’s for this honor and also all of our local sponsors.”
This isn’t the first time the CMU Hockey team’s community impact has been recognized. Earlier this year, they earned the American Collegiate Hockey Association’s 2024 National Community Service Award, marking their third time receiving the honor overall.
Looking ahead to the 8th annual Pink the Rink on February 23, 2025, the team is more motivated than ever to continue uniting the community in support of those affected by cancer through the game of hockey.