Students across the country raised more than $500,000 for breast cancer research

LETHBRIDGE, AB, Dec. 10, 2012 /CNW/ - CIBC (TSX: CM) (NYSE: CM) today announced University of Lethbridge's Devynn Helischauer as the top Alberta student fundraiser in the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure Post Secondary Challenge.

The Challenge inspired Canada's college and university students and faculty to raise more than $500,000 for breast cancer research, education, awareness and advocacy.

Helischauer, who raised $4,000 during the Challenge as part of team 'Treasured Chests', has won a $2,500 CIBC Education Award to help with her tuition expenses. Fellow University of Lethbridge student Anna Kovalchuk and Ken Soong from the University of Alberta were also named among the top national fundraisers to win a CIBC Education Award in 2012.

"CIBC was very proud to present the Post Secondary Challenge," said Mark Galbraith, Vice-President, Alberta, CIBC. "Our goal is to raise breast cancer awareness among Canada's students and motivate as many young people as possible to raise funds that will make a difference in the lives of those living with breast cancer. Congratulations to the CIBC Education Award winners and thank you to all of the students who together raised more than half a million dollars."

"We are truly inspired by the outstanding dedication and enthusiasm demonstrated by participating Post Secondary Challenge schools across Canada. With the incredible support of our title sponsor - CIBC, this program has once again exceeded our expectations," said Deborah Dubenofsky, Chair, National Board of Directors, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. "I wish to congratulate each of the CIBC Education Awards recipients for their contribution to the Foundation's vision of creating a future without breast cancer. The support we receive through this program allows the Foundation to continue investing in the most promising breast cancer research, education and advocacy initiatives in the country."

Here's what the CIBC Education Award winners had to say:

Devynn Helischauer, University of Lethbridge "I was honoured and shocked to receive this award as this cause is close to my heart.  My Mom and Grandma have breast cancer and I am glad I can make a difference.  This is very helpful to me as it can support my education costs."

Anna Kovalchuk, University of Lethbridge "I've been participating in the CIBC Run for the Cure for the past few years and I had a great experience doing the Post Secondary Challenge last year. A scholarship was a great motivator for my fundraising! I volunteer and fundraise for the cause with the hopes that I never will have a personal connection to it."

Ken Soong, University of Alberta "It's all about raising awareness for a great cause. A close friend of mine was recently diagnosed with breast cancer, although she is still less than 40 years old. It was really close to home for me and when I was at the Run I had her on my mind the whole time.

"I was overjoyed at the news that I won the $2500 CIBC Education Award. I have to thank all my friends, family, and colleagues who donated to my run. Without their support and their rally behind my cause, none of this would have happened."

About CIBC
CIBC is a leading North American financial institution with nearly 11 million personal banking and business clients. CIBC is committed to supporting causes that matter to our clients, our employees and our communities. We aim to make a difference in communities through corporate donations, sponsorships and the volunteer spirit of employees. In 2012, CIBC contributed more than $38 million to charitable and non-profit initiatives in Canada to support national, regional and local organizations.

About the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure
Since 1992, the annual Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure has been the largest, single-day, volunteer-led national event in support of creating a future without breast cancer. In 2012, nearly 170,000 participants raised more than $30 million to fund innovative breast cancer research, education and awareness programs. On Sunday, October 6, 2013 this national movement will again connect participants and volunteers in 60 communities across the country. For more information, visit www.cbcf.org

SOURCE: Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation