Pedaling with Purpose: Bearcats Ride 360 Miles for Student Support

St. Vincent College students, alumni, faculty, and supporters recently completed a 360-mile cycling journey along the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath, traveling from Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C., following spring commencement.

The “Bearcats on Bikes” initiative was created to support the college’s Students First Fund, which provides financial assistance and opportunities to help students succeed. In its inaugural run, the effort generated more than $16,000 in donations.

The ride, held May 9–15, was organized by Dr. Jeff Mallory, executive vice president and chief operating officer, and Dr. Greg Bisignani, a member of the college’s Board of Directors and Boyer School Advisory Council. Both brought personal experience with the trail—Mallory having ridden sections with family, and Bisignani completing the full route multiple times with his wife, Audrey.

Cyclists averaged about 60 miles per day, pushing through occasional rain while taking in scenic views and building strong connections along the way. The group made stops in Connellsville and Meyersdale, Pennsylvania, as well as Cumberland, Hancock, and Brunswick, Maryland. While in Cumberland, riders gathered with alumni, and on May 10, the group paused to observe Mother’s Day.

The journey concluded in Washington, D.C., on May 15, marking the end of a physically demanding but meaningful experience.

Mallory emphasized the role of community support in the event’s success. He noted that the trip highlighted generosity, fostered meaningful conversations, and demonstrated the strength of the Bearcat network, with riders, donors, volunteers, and supporters all contributing.

Organizers plan to make Bearcats on Bikes an annual event, offering both full-route and segmented ride options. The goal is to expand participation and continue building momentum for student support initiatives.

Participants included Audrey Bisignani; Dominique Tedrow; Aidan Fraser; Rev. Frederick C. Byrne, OSB; Grace Scoville; Cassandra Lanza; Jim Jeffries; Joseph Ivory; Greg Fajt; Brennan George; and James Walters, who served as driver.

Those interested in contributing to future efforts can visit crowdfunding.stvincent.edu.