Shelton State Community College made history this month as President Dr. Jonathan Koh and Athletic Director Cara Crosslin hosted the college’s first‑ever Spread NED Symposium, a groundbreaking event that united survivors, caregivers, medical professionals, student‑athletes, and community leaders under one powerful message: No One Fights Alone. What began as a vision quickly became a transformative gathering filled with emotion, honesty, and hope — and it culminated in a surprise Friends of Jaclyn (FOJ) adoption for young warrior Will Roberts.
The heart of the event was the leadership behind it. Dr. Jonathan Koh, known for his forward‑thinking approach and deep commitment to community engagement, was the driving force who brought the symposium to life. Koh recognized that the Spread NED movement — rooted in survivorship, storytelling, and solidarity — had the potential to create a meaningful impact far beyond campus. He personally invited leaders from across the region, ensuring that voices representing pediatric, adult, and rare cancers were included. His vision was simple: create a space where people could share their journeys and feel supported, understood, and uplifted.
Under Koh’s guidance, the symposium became more than a panel discussion. It became a healing space. Attendees described the event as “powerful,” “moving,” and “a reminder of what community truly means.” Stories of resilience echoed throughout the room, each one different yet connected by the same thread of courage.
Working alongside him was Athletic Director Cara Crosslin, whose leadership and heart were evident in every detail of the day. Crosslin coordinated student‑athletes, coaches, and staff, ensuring the event reflected Shelton State’s values of compassion, unity, and service. Her ability to bring people together — and to make families feel welcomed and embraced — elevated the entire experience.
Crosslin also played a central role in the day’s most emotional moment: the surprise FOJ adoption of Will Roberts. As FOJ founder,
I announced that Will would be adopted by Shelton State athletics, Crosslin stepped forward to lead the ceremony. The room erupted in applause as Will and his family were welcomed into the Buccaneer family. For Will, it was a moment of joy and recognition. For the athletes, it was a reminder of the profound impact they can have beyond the field or court.
The adoption embodied everything the Spread NED Symposium stood for: hope, unity, and the belief that every child deserves to feel supported and celebrated. It also marked Shelton State as the first college in the nation to host a Spread NED event of this kind — a testament to the leadership of both Koh and Crosslin.
In recognition of their extraordinary commitment to advocacy, compassion, and community leadership, Dr. Koh and Cara Crosslin have been named the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation’s “Future Champions of Golf NEDvocates of the Month.” This honor reflects their dedication to elevating the voices of families battling cancer and their willingness to lead with heart.
In a world where cancer touches nearly every family, the Spread NED Symposium offered something rare: a gathering where stories were honored, communities were strengthened, and hope was shared freely. Thanks to Dr. Koh and Cara Crosslin, Shelton State has set a new standard for what it means to lead with purpose — and to stand beside children and families when they need it most.
