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

MONTREAL, Dec. 10, 2012 /CNW/ - CIBC (TSX: CM) (NYSE: CM) today announced McGill University's Beatrice Britneff as the top Quebec 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. The funds raised support the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation and in Quebec, events also support the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation.

Britneff, who raised nearly $2,800 as part of team 'Urban Groove Dance Project', is one of nine students nationally to win a $2,500 CIBC Education Award to help with tuition expenses.

"CIBC was very proud to present the Post Secondary Challenge," said Sylvain Vinet, Senior Vice-President, Eastern Canada, 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 Beatrice and to all the CIBC Education Award winners and thank you to all the students who together raised more than half a million dollars."

"I know and love several women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, including my mother. The numbers are far too high, so I run in hope that they will soon find a cure," said Beatrice Britneff. "I think it's great that CBCF and CIBC have student welfare in mind, and reward students for their hard work and their achievements. This was my fifth time participating in and fundraising for the Run. I do so year after year because it is a cause incredibly important to me, my family and my friends."

"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."

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