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

TORONTO, Dec. 10, 2012 /CNW/ - CIBC (TSX: CM) (NYSE: CM) today announced University of Toronto student Dominique Carli as the top 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.

Carli, who raised $7,000 as part of the U of T Kin Team, has won a $2,500 CIBC Education Award to help with her tuition expenses. Four other Ontario university students were also among the top national fundraisers to win a 2012 CIBC Education Award:

• Simona Flumian- York University
• Caroline Cormier - University of Toronto
• Erica Yates - Brock University
• Erica Zurawski - Queen's University

"CIBC was very proud to present the Post Secondary Challenge," said Christina Kramer, Executive Vice-President, CIBC and the bank's National Run Champion. "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."

Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario was the top fundraising school nationally.

"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:

Dominique Carli, University of Toronto "At only 19 years old I can already name many friends and family members that have been affected by cancer. Through their fight I have been witness to courage and hope in the most incredible proportions.

"I was so excited and completely honoured to receive the award. I am so thankful that people took the time to consider our incredible cause, and I am confident that together we continue to move the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation closer to achieving its vision of creating a future without breast cancer!"

Simona Flumian, York University "When I found out that I was a recipient of the CIBC Education Award, I felt such a sense of pride in my family and friends who sponsored me, as well as my energetic team: The Schulich Charity Association. We did it again! Over the past two years, my supporters have helped me raise $9,600. Without them, none of this would have been possible. The CIBC Education Award encourages students to give back to the community and find a passion in making a difference. For me, making a difference is part of who I am."

Caroline Cormier, University of Toronto "Participating in the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation CIBC Run for the Cure is such an incredible opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to the invaluable programs offered by the Foundation and, ultimately, to a future without breast cancer. I hope that my fundraising efforts will encourage other university students to get involved with the cause next year and to set the bar even higher. I strongly believe that our generation has a responsibility to take action now to create meaningful change for the future."

Erica Yates, Brock University "This was the second time I have participated in the CIBC Run for the Cure. The first time was for my grandma, and this year was for my mom who was diagnosed with breast cancer this summer.  In the coming years, it will be for finding a cure so my sister and I can be as lucky as my mom.

"When I found out about the award I called my mom to tell her the amazing news. I am so happy that she can be here with me for this award presentation. Thanks CIBC!"

Erica Zurawski, Queen's University "I love doing charity runs, and I was particularly blown away by this one.  There was so much enthusiasm among the volunteers.

Personally, I do not have anyone close to me who has suffered from breast cancer, but it was so heart-touching to see everyone wearing their shirts with "I'm running for ___".  I am so happy to have helped towards such an important cause."

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: CIBC