We are proud to announce that Julie Willis, of Relay For Life at the University of Virginia (UVA), has been named the 2025 Nationwide Campus Relayer of the Year as part of the Pat Flynn S
pirit of Relay Awards. Julie’s selection was especially meaningful, as she received four separate nominations from both student leaders and her ACS staff partner—an extraordinary testament to her impact and leadership.
Across multiple nominations, Julie was consistently recognized for transforming UVA Relay For Life through strategic leadership, deep mission integration, and an unwavering commitment to growing both participation and fundraising. In 2025, Julie led the program to a $40,000+ year-over-year increase in fundraising, helping UVA achieve one of its strongest seasons in recent history. As president, she introduced a comprehensive fundraising strategy known as “No Dead Zones,” ensuring that every week included intentional fundraising activity and keeping momentum high across the entire Executive Leadership Team.
Julie’s ACS Staff Partner, Kristen Broderdorp, shared in her nomination:
“Julie exceeded year-over-year fundraising growth by inspiring and leading the entire Relay committee to an incredible season of success. Through her strategic planning, dedication, and ability to motivate others, she guided the team to raise over $64,000, marking an impressive increase from the previous year. Julie’s strong leadership, creativity, and passion for the mission drove renewed energy into the event and set a new fundraising standard for future seasons.”
Beyond fundraising, Julie was repeatedly praised for her impact on the ACS mission. She consistently shared ACS resources, integrated mission moments into leadership meetings, and strengthened partnerships with the UVA Cancer Center and university administration—ultimately helping elevate Relay’s visibility and influence across campus. One nominator noted that Julie even inspired the UVA President to attend the event and make a personal contribution, expanding the reach of Relay’s mission at the highest levels of campus leadership.
Across all four nominations, one theme was constant: Julie leads with heart. As one student leader wrote, “When you think of Fight Cancer at UVA, you think of Julie Willis.” Her ability to unite people, motivate others, and carry the mission with authenticity has left a lasting legacy at UVA—and makes her a powerful embodiment of the Spirit of Relay.
To view all 2025 Pat Flynn Spirit of Relay Award winners, visit RelayForLife.org/2025awards.