91ºÚÁÏÍø’s newest student organization is hitting the ground running—literally. The Running Club, founded this semester by nursing major Sarah Jenness ’26, is all about bringing students together through the joy of running. We caught up with Sarah to learn what inspired her to start the club, her vision for its first year, and how she hopes it will create a stronger sense of community among Gulls, on and off the trail.
Responses have been edited for clarity and length.
What inspired you to start the Running Club this year?
Jenness: I was inspired to start a running club because when I was marathon training, I was running alone so much. I was always looking for people to run with to make the miles more enjoyable. The purpose of this club is to bring people together and ultimately make running fun for everyone.
What types of students do you hope will join—experienced runners, beginners, or both? How many students are currently in the club?
Jenness: This club is for all types of runners! Currently, we have around 100 people interested in the club, which will allow for multiple pace groups to form.
What does a typical meeting or run with the club look like?
Jenness: When you come to a run, you can expect to do some warm-up foot drills, and then we will break off into pace groups and run the predetermined route. We will then meet back where we started and finish off with some stretching.
Are there specific goals you hope the club achieves in its first year?
Jenness: My biggest hope for the club in its first year is to get people running. Running is for everyone, and I want to share my love for the sport with others.
How do you see the Running Club contributing to student life and community at 91ºÚÁÏÍø?
Jenness: Enhancing the sense of community. Often, people run alone, and so I hope that Run Club becomes a space where students can meet new people with similar interests.
What’s your favorite running route around campus or Beverly so far?
Jenness: I love running up to Manchester-by-the Sea. The road to get there is so beautiful with views of the ocean and gorgeous houses.
What songs always make it onto your running playlist?
Jenness: “Heads Will Roll - A-Trak Remix” always makes it onto my running playlist. It is an upbeat song that helps get the legs moving when they are beginning to slow down and feel heavy.
Do you have any advice for someone who’s nervous about joining but wants to try running?
Jenness: My best piece of advice would be to come! There are so many people out there who are in the exact same boat as you. This club is designed to be fun and low-stress. Running is for everyone!
Looking ahead, where do you see the Running Club in the next few years?
Jenness: I hope to pass Run Club on to a passionate underclassman, so it can continue to grow in the coming years. I hope it brings people together, encourages new runners to start, and allows existing runners to reach their goals.
Want to join the Running Club? Reach out to Sarah Jenness to get involved and start running with the flock!