For the past two years Colleges Against Cancer has partnered with and several bars — including Paddys, Sips, Cy’s Roost and Outlaws — for a “Drink Pink Mug Night” event.

This year, the bars will start selling the $5 pink mugs at 7 p.m. on Thursday, with all proceeds going toward breast cancer research.

“The proceeds from the mug sales are what’s going to the American Cancer Society,” said Briana Brunsvold, junior in elementary education and president of Colleges Against Cancer. “The mugs are super awesome. They’re bright pink, and they have a big ribbon on them.”

Last year, a total of 1,400 mugs were sold. 

This year, in hopes of a higher turnout, Rob Roe, senior in psychology and manager at Paddy’s Irish Pub, said a total of 1,600 mugs are going to be available and equally distributed among the bars.

“I know we all truly believe in the cause, and we’re more than willing to support and help when we can,” Roe said. “This is just our avenue we’re able to take to help.”

Brunsvold encourages student to go out for mug night and show their support for breast cancer since it is huge type of cancer and affects so many people today.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer throughout their lifetime and one in 1,000 men are at risk as well, Brunsvold said.

“Breast cancer is the leading cause in cancer deaths in women. It’s obviously a huge deal, and a lot of people, men and women, are affected,” Brunsvold said.

Megan Phelps, senior in advertising, said when she goes out, she’d like to make an appearance at all of the bars just to see who all is buying the mugs, and try to keep people’s spirits up about purchasing mugs for the

cause.

“My mom had breast cancer when I was younger, and it’s just one of those things where people who do have breast cancer … see that people are willing to help and just support them,” Phelps said. “It’s not even just about the money; it’s about having that pink mug which is more of like a symbol to people.”

Brunsvold said that purchasing mugs is a fun way for students to support the cause.

“This is a really good, easy and fun way to support the fight against breast cancer,” Brunsvold said.

Roe said he believes the American Cancer Society is a great thing to give back to.

“I think it really speaks volumes about how Iowa State students are willing to give back and help with a charity,” Roe said.