"No child should die in the dawn of life." These were the famous words spoken by Danny Thomas, founder of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. He commited his life to help save the children of the world who struggle with catastrophic diseases.

A group on the campus of UTM tries to follow in the footsteps of Danny Thomas by raising money for St. Jude's Hospital. Up 'Til Dawn is a student-led, non-profit organization that unites students, faculty, and the local community in a goal to help these children through one primary focus--letter writing.

The letter writing process is a competition around campus that different organizations compete in to see who can raise the most money. There are many on campus already in the letter writing teams. The process is a slow one, but it is definitely rewarding to know that you can contribute in a way that costs you nothing.

Up 'Til Dawn's executive committee this past fall has persuaded 15 different teams to take on the challenge of the letter writing campaign. Among these are the photography club, the Church of Christ Student Center, Sigma Sigma Chi Fraternity, Browning Hall RAs, the sisters of Zeta Tau Alpha, Chi Omega, and Alpha Delta Pi, the volleyball team, and many more.

To date these 15 teams have combined a total of almost $10,000, which is more than UTM has ever turned in. These teams should all be extremely proud. To celebrate all the hard work that these teams have put in, Up 'Til Dawn will have their final event to honor these teams on March 8 in the Duncan Ballroom of the UC. There will be free food, games, and many door prizes will be given out.

There will also be a St. Jude patient there to speak. A first place trophy will be given out to the organization on campus that brings in the most money. So, remember to keep the evening of March 8 available.

If your organization wants to be involved or wants to know more about Up 'Til Dawn and the letter writing campaign, it's not too late. For more information please contact Up 'Til Dawn's Executive Director, Nicole Franklin at 587-8552 or Judy Rayburn, Director of Admissions at 587-7032.