Columbia State Community College recently hosted the first-ever Chargers 5K, Chargers Walk and Chargers Trot on the Williamson Campus.

The 5K race began at 8 a.m. on March 21 with 174 registered runners and walkers from nine states and 16 counties around Tennessee. Chargers 5K medals were given to race participants, while ribbons were presented to individuals participating in the Chargers Walk and Chargers Trot for children.

Over 40 faculty, staff and students helped the event go smoothly.

“Perfect weather, doing something good for our students and having fun all came together for a successful inaugural Chargers 5K!” said Bethany Lay, Columbia State vice president for advancement and executive director of the Columbia State Foundation. “I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors and to every runner, volunteer and supporter who joined us.”

The Chargers 5K event also included a one-mile Chargers Walk and a Chargers Trot race for children up to age 10. There was also a Kids’ Zone with fun activities for children and families.

“I am so proud of our Williamson County community for their support of the Chargers 5K!” said Dr. Shane Hall, Columbia State vice president of the Williamson Campus and community engagement. “Our participants, our sponsors and our volunteers truly represented our community values by coming out to support Columbia State’s Williamson Campus and our students. I will see you all next year at the 2027 Chargers 5K!”

A special thank you to the City of Franklin, RunNash, A Matter of Timing and neighbors around the Williamson Campus for the help and support of the event.

“It was truly inspiring to see our campus and community come together with such purpose and passion for this year’s 5K,” said Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president. “I want to thank every participant and partner who crossed the finish line with us. This event was more than just a race; it was a powerful reflection of our commitment to students, and the support raised will directly enhance our ability to fulfill our mission.”

The Columbia State Foundation would also like to thank the following sponsors for their help in making the event possible: Presenting Sponsor - Atmos Energy, Pape-Dawson, TriStar Nolensville ER, Bone and Joint Institute, Williamson Health, Cooley Public Strategies, Middle Tennessee Electric, Southern Night Media, Signs First Franklin, Halifax Hospitality, Cool Springs Foot Care and Dunkin’.

To view more photos from the event, please visit our Flickr album at www.flickr.com/photos/columbiastatecc/albums.