UPA is very proud of every single runner that trains as part of Team Iqraa. Since 2008, UPA has partnered with the Iqraa running club based in Washington, DC to raise funds for the Mahmoud Darwish Scholarship Fund (formerly the University Scholarship Program). Iqraa has trained over 150 runners and has raised over $230,000 for various education projects.

We would like to personally congratulate longtime Iqraa veteran, Cathy Baker, who placed third in her age group at the Marine Corps Marathon last weekend!

UPA recently spoke to Cathy about her accomplishment and her commitment to helping Palestinian students.

You placed third in your age group at this year’s Marine Corps Marathon— what does that accomplishment mean to you? It means a whole lot, for so many reasons. I never thought of myself as athletic and did not start running until midlife. So actually becoming competitive in my age group has been astonishing. I’m especially proud of my run this year because I pushed through leg cramps for the last 10 miles. In last year’s race I fell apart near the end and posted an unimpressive time, so this year I was determined to push forward no matter what. The fact that I did, makes me very proud.

UPA has changed the name of their University Scholarship Program to the Mahmoud Darwish Scholarship Fund. How do you feel about the change? UPA changed the name in order to honor Mahmoud Darwish’s legacy to literature and education.

I was glad to hear of this change because it adds prestige to the scholarship program. For me, it’s an honor to be associated in any way with the great Palestinian writer, Mahmoud Darwish.

What is Iqraa and how do you explain it to people who are not familiar with the Palestinian cause?

“Iqraa” means read, which is the essence of education. Members of Team Iqraa raise money for college scholarships to Palestinian students in Palestine. It’s an easy cause to promote because peace runs on the path laid by education!

Why do you continue to raise funds for Palestinian students?

This is one small way I can consistently contribute to the development of Palestine. A benefit for me is that through Team Iqraa, I’ve come to know many Palestinian Americans. This has added to my understanding of the country, which I have yet to visit.

Out of all the races you’ve done, which one is your favorite or most memorable?

It was the thrill of a lifetime to run the Boston Marathon in 2015. I PR’ed (personal record) in rain and wind, with a 3:50:33. And that happened because I stumbled into Team Iqraa back in 2010! This year I qualified to run Boston once again, so in 2020 I will try to repeat and even exceed that experience.

If you are interested in giving in solidarity with Team Iqraa, please visit upaconnect.org/iqraarun