Norm Solomon, Ph. D., dean of Fairfield University's Dolan School of Business, was part of an effort that raised millions for 'Team for Kids' by running the New York City Marathon.

Thanks to the generosity of the University community, friends and family, Dr. Solomon, of Easton, earned money for each mile he ran for the charity, an organization of more than 1,000 runners that raised $4 million to support the youth services arm of New York Road Runners Club.

The money will go to fund weekly running-based fitness, character building and nutrition classes serving more than 30,000 children each week in almost 200 New York City schools and community centers. A major issue the classes combat is childhood obesity, which continues to be the greatest health threat in the nation. " These funds will go a long way to help give these very deserving kids a running start," Dr. Solomon said.

It's an organization close to his heart. A native of the Bronx, he benefited from similar after-school programs growing up. "Knowing that many kids will live healthier and fuller lives as a result of the efforts of Team for Kids is tremendous motivation for me," he said. "One child said about our marathon efforts, 'If you can do this, I can do anything.' If that is not motivation enough to do your best in the marathon then I don't know what is."

Dr. Solomon finished the 26.2-mile trek in 4:42:21. "I was able to run the race I wanted doing the second half faster than the first half for 'negative splits' and finishing strong. I actually felt pretty good at the end ... I plan to be back next year for the 2010 New York City Marathon."

Posted On: 11-24-2009 10:11 AM

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