Staff

Heather McDanel

Director & Founder

Heather McDanel founded the Students Run Philly Style program in 2004. A runner and public health advocate, Heather has over fifteen years of experience with program design and implementation. In her role as Director of Students Run Philly Style, she oversees all aspects of the program and ensures financial stability for its operations. Heather has been influential in developing relationships with key stakeholders such as community organizations, government agencies, schools, running clubs, corporate sponsors, and grantors.

During Heather’s time with Students Run Philly Style, the program has grown from 50 students, to 650 students from 50 teams throughout the city and has expanded in breadth to include academic support and intensive leadership training in addition to mentorship through long distance running.

Heather has a Master's in Public Health from Temple University and has been a long distance runner for over 20 years. She has completed 6 marathons, and considers running the Boston Marathon one of her greatest accomplishments. Heather is married to Mike Goonewardene and has two daughters, Avani and Jada, and one son, Alex.

Favorite Students Run Event

"Appreciation Event—this is my favorite event because it is the best display of the heart and soul of Students Run."

I can’t run without…

"The right thickness of socks. I'm a thin sock runner."

Contact Information