On April 15, Sam Houston State University’s Zeta Tau Alpha raised $26,000 at its 18th annual Crown Classic golf tournament for breast cancer awareness and education month.

The tournament was held at Panorama Golf Course in Conroe. The funds were raised from the tournament proceeds, silent auction, raffle and a pro golf player who split their proceeds. The Zetas also raised funds outside the tournament by going around their communities and hometowns to help spread awareness and education.

Former Zeta and Vice President Coordinator of Philanthropy events Emily Lepley helped guarantee this tournament came together.

“This shows that Zeta and other sororities do not fit the other stereotype, and we do so much more,” Lepley said. “We put so much hard work into raising awareness and education for our philanthropy, and to say we achieved $26,000 is crazy. It is such a rewarding experience and I am honored to be doing it for one of eight women who will be diagnosed with breast cancer. So proud of the hard work of my chapter, because without them it would not have been possible.”

According to Lepley, she felt a personal connection to the cause.

“Personally it hits home because my grandmother passed away from breast cancer when I was younger so being able to raise money, education and awareness for it means so much to me and my family,” Lepley said.

The Zetas’ primary goal for the annual tournament was to reach $24,000, but the Zeta chapter exceeded their goal by $2,000 with a grand total of $26,000 raised.