During Alumni Weekend at West Chester University, Susan Weldon, a member of the Class of 1986 who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in communication studies, was named a Distinguished Alumna.

This award is presented to WCU graduates who have provided a great service to society, received outstanding acknowledgement in their profession, and positively affected a large number of people. As a breast cancer survivor and awareness advocate, Weldon fully embodies the award.

After Weldon’s breast cancer diagnosis in 2004, the West Chester resident founded the nonprofit Unite for HER in 2009. UFH funds and delivers therapies, both during treatment and afterward, to support the physical and emotional needs of women in the region with breast cancer. From a small program in Paoli Hospital, UFH has grown to a partnership with 31 hospitals and affiliates that has served more than 4,000 women.

“For me, West Chester University has been a constant source of community in my life, since I was 18 years old,” said Weldon. “And to look back and see what we at Unite for HER have been able to accomplish – because of the support of this community that surrounds me – warms my heart.

“On behalf of all the women I serve at Unite for HER, thank you, for this honor will move forward the mission we deliver.”

Weldon is a respected leader in the community and is known for her motivational leadership. Before founding UFH, Weldon had a career in advertising sales and spent 25 years as a coach at AJS Pancott Gymnastics in West Chester.