Newton Citizen

Photo by Tori Boone

OXFORD -- Area bike enthusiasts are encouraged to participate in Oxford College's first bicycle ride this weekend to benefit the students.

Beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday on the Oxford College quad off Hamill Street, bikers can be part of the Ride for Leadership, aimed to raise awareness and funds for leadership programs at the college.

A committee of faculty and staff bicycle riders developed the event as a way to bond with the Oxford community and shine light on important values that students get by participating in leadership programs -- ethical engagement, empathy, commitment, collaboration and social justice. Programs include Leadership Oxford and Experience in Cultivating Excellence in Leadership, or ExCEL, as well as simply being a leader in general.

"One of the unique things about Oxford is that we provide several leadership opportunities for freshmen and sophomores," said Pete Sherrard, assistant director of athletics at Oxford College. "We want to continue to cultivate these experiences."

The public is invited to join the Oxford College faculty, staff and students on a leisurely, recreational 15-mile ride through Oxford and north Newton County or a 33-mile loop through Oxford and Jersey in western Walton County. The ride will pass through historical sites and back roads of the area.

"We consider ourself part of the community," Sherrard said. "We want them to come meet some of our students, faculty and staff and see our campus, since we share the same backyard."

Registration costs $25 and includes a T-shirt. Those interested can register online at www.oxford.emory.edu/bikeride by 5 p.m. Friday or by contacting Sherrard at psherra@emory.edu or 770-784-4796.

The college plans to make this an annual event.