EVANSTON, Ill. -- Northwestern senior Alex Cohen has not only made a difference on the basketball court for the Wildcats through the years, but she's also been a significant contributor throughout the community.
Since matriculating to Evanston in 2011, Cohen has been intimately involved in Northwestern's chapter of Autism Speaks U. The Bayside, Wis., native joined the organization because of her older brother, Aaron. Aaron Cohen when he was three years old and Alex has always had a passion for making a difference in his lives, as well as the lives of all those on the spectrum.
Cohen served as the president of Autism Speaks U at Northwestern from 2012-2014, during which time she helped raise awareness and funds through several events like "Knockout Autism," a basketball knockout tournament that brings together a few of her favorite things.
As a senior, Cohen has moved into the role of vice president for Autism Speaks U so that she can focus her attention on a new initiative she envisioned, NU Goes Blue. Cohen has been serving as the event chair for the special night, which is coming up this week on Thursday, Oct. 2. NU Goes Blue will raise funds and autism awareness and feature appetizers, a dessert bar, music by pianist Spencer Hua, a fabulous silent auction and more.
"Most of the events we've coordinated through Autism Speaks U have been geared specifically toward Northwestern students," said Cohen. "I really wanted to create something that the surrounding community could be involved in as well. When I thought of the idea for NU Goes Blue, one of my main goals was raise autism awareness beyond Northwestern's campus and into the Evanston and Chicagoland communities. We're bringing everyone together for a fun evening that supports a great cause"
While Cohen is serving as the event chair for Thursday's benefit, Kelly Epstein, an autism advocate, will be the honorary chairwoman for NU Goes Blue. WGN Sports Director and the Voice of the Wildcats, Dave Eanet, will be the host for the evening.
NU Goes Blue, a blue affair to benefit Autism Speaks U at Northwestern University will be held on Oct. 2 at Evanston Golf Club from 6-8:30 p.m. In addition to appetizers and desserts, a cash bar will be available. Blue cocktail attire is encouraged.
Tickets, which start at $75, remain available for NU Goes Blue. To purchase tickets, please CLICK HERE. With questions, please contact Alex Cohen at nugoesblue@gmail.com.
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