by Barbara Garrison

The University of Delaware's 2001 Heart Walk team raised $11,000 in contributions for the American Heart Association–a 12 percent increase over last year, maintaining its position as one of the top 10 fundraisers for the event, held this year on Sept. 9, along the Riverfront Walk in Wilmington.

Matthew Frawley, a senior in the criminal justice program, brought in the second highest amount of contributions, with $560. Frawley said he and his family were motivated since his father, Daniel Frawley, mayor of Wilmington for eight years, died of a heart attack in 1992. Frawley's mother, Bonita; wife, Katherine, a junior communication major; and his 2-year-old son, Daniel Franklin, accompanied him on the walk.

Frawley said he raised money by sending solicitation letters to businesses explaining who he was, why he wanted to raise money for heart disease research and asking them to sponsor his walk.

Marianne Carter, director of the Wellness Center and coordinator of the University's team, was the top fundraiser, collecting $1,335 in contributions. The University-wide effort began with volunteer Heart Walk captains, who each recruited a team. Captains included: Linda Smith, Wellness Center; Randee Tobin, College of Health and Nursing Sciences; Gwen Davis, Office of the University Secretary; Melissa Fulghum, physical therapy; Diane Henker, international programs; Stephanie Shields, health and exercise sciences; Donald Redmond, labor relations; Mary Beth Miele, medical technology; Kathy Roth, library; Darlene Cartwright, Trabant University Center events; and Carter. A total of 111 employees and students represented the University.