Annual SMU benefit raises $12,000 for student

This year's recipient, Sabrina Bushlack, poses with the benefit's namesake, Taylor Richmond.

Nearly 500 people attended the Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance March 23 at Saint Mary's University.

WINONA, Minn. — Nearly 500 people attended Saint Mary’s University’s 13th annual Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance on March 23.

Proceeds from the dance — and a silent auction held on campus — raised more than $12,000 for this year’s beneficiary Sabrina Bushlack, a senior biochemistry major who was seriously injured last summer by a drunk driver in Fort Wayne, Ind. The accident left Bushlack, a Mapleton resident, in a medically induced coma for several weeks. She is back on campus for the spring 2013 semester and making great strides. During her Saint Mary’s career she has been active in varsity volleyball, liturgical ministry, and as an orientation leader.

The benefit dance has become an annual tradition since it was started by students in 2001 in honor of Taylor Richmond, son of Saint Mary’s employee Nikki Richmond and Nick Richmond. Taylor has a genetic terminal illness called Ataxia Telangiectasia (A-T) and the money from his benefit was used to fulfill Taylor’s dream of going to Disneyworld. Each year this event benefits someone in the SMU community in need.

Donations are still being accepted. To help, send checks — payable to the Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance — to Lance Thompson, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, 700 Terrace Heights No. 1528, Winona, MN 55987.