Penn State Health, Mid Penn Bank celebrate decade of No Shave November with record-breaking $355,000 raised
Participants grow out facial hair to raise awareness and funds for prostate and urologic health
Penn State Health and Mid Penn Bank marked the 10th anniversary of their No Shave November campaign last month by raising an unprecedented $355,000, setting a new all-time record for the initiative.
Launched in 2016, the campaign has grown steadily each year, supporting research and treatment for prostate and urological cancers at Penn State Health. Participants from both organizations put down their razors and grew out their facial hair in a spirited competition to raise funds and awareness.
This year, Dr. Jay Raman, professor and chair of the Department of Urology at Penn State Health, and his team, “Raman Noodles,” raised $182,357, while Rory Ritrievi, CEO of Mid Penn Bank, and his team, “MPB Execs,” contributed $120,732. Together, their leadership and commitment helped drive the campaign to its most successful year yet, contributing significantly to the record-breaking total.
“Rory and Mid Penn Bank have been unbelievable partners over the past decade,” Raman said. “Their team, along with the rest of our community partners, have helped to save lives and made a true difference in the health and well-being of our patients here at Penn State Health.”
The money raised fuels critical research by physician-scientists in the Department of Urology, focusing on cancer care for older adults, addressing disparities in minority populations and expanding genetic testing to personalize treatment plans.
Funds raised also support:
- Free prostate cancer screenings for the community
- The hiring of three fellows to support research and patient programs
- The establishment of a stronger support system for Penn State Health patients
- Advanced care collaboration across central Pennsylvania
Thanks to the campaign’s success, the Department of Urology doubled the number of free screenings offered in the past year.
“For 10 years, Mid Penn Bank and Penn State Health have joined forces during the month of November to raise funds for prostate cancer research to help fight this formidable disease that affects one in eight men,” said Ritrievi. “We are proud of our partnership and its contributions to the groundbreaking research being performed by Dr. Raman and his incredible team of physicians.”
As No Shave November enters its second decade, the partnership between Penn State Health and Mid Penn Bank continues to make a lasting impact—one beard at a time.
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