“Movember,” or “No-Shave November,” originated in 1999 in South Australia, when a group of young men decided to grow moustaches for charity throughout the month of November. Several years later, the members of the Chicagoland Hill family decided to use the tradition to raise money after their father, Matthew Hill, passed away from colon cancer in November of 2007.
The No-Shave November organization is working with several other groups, including American Cancer Society, Prevent Cancer Foundation and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. You can learn more about the No-Shave November organization here.
Here are some Terps who are participating in the challenge!
1. Junior computer science major Graham Buck
Why did you decide to participate?
“I’ve participated in some form of No-shave November since I started growing facial hair, but this is the first year ever I’ve done Movember. The purpose of it is to help raise awareness and donations for men’s health. My father is a survivor of prostate cancer, so that’s where my inspiration comes from. Also I just think mustaches are pretty cool so it’s a win-win LOL.”
Have you shared why with others?
“People ask me about the mustache a lot, so I do get to tell people about why I’m doing it all the time.”
How is it going so far?
“I think it’s going very well so far, two weeks down, only two to go.”
2. Senior finance major Thomas Foley
Why did you participate?
“I’m participating because all of my housemates decided to do No-shave November as a competition and [it’s] just a fun activity to do together.”
Have you shared why with others?
“Besides my group of friends, I’ve shared with anyone who has asked why I’m letting my hair grow, including my family who tend to like me better with a clean-shaven face.”
How is it going so far?
“It’s going good! I don’t grow the most even and full beard, but with a few touch-ups here and there I think I’m making some progress.”
3. Senior operations management major Benjamin Philbrick
Why did you decide to participate?
“It’s a good excuse to grow out the beard and I support the cause.”
Have you shared why with others?
“My roommates and I are participating together.”
How is it going so far?
“So far, so good, but it’s getting a little itchy.”
4. Senior information systems and finance major Cameron Kline
Why did you decide to participate?
“[It’s the] last chance to participate before starting my full time career and I support the cause.”
Have you shared why with others?
“I have not.”
How is it going so far?
“The beard is starting to become itchy!”
Philanthropy can be fun! If you’re already partaking in No-Shave November, consider supporting the cause! Share with your friends and may your beard be ever growing.