Runner Profile: Newtonville Native Running Boston Marathon to Raise Money for Newton Schools

Runner name: Emily Burke

Age (or age group): 18-39

Where you live (what village in Newton): I grew up in Newtonville

Profession: I am a teacher for the non-profit organization Year Up

Marathon experience: Growing up in Newton and watching people run the Boston Marathon on Heartbreak Hill made me realize that I too could run this someday. I was never a big runner but after seeing my cousin run the Boston Marathon in 2006 I set a goal for myself to run a marathon before I turned 25. I ended up running my first marathon, the Disney World Marathon, in January 2009 when I was 24.

Reason for running: I am running on behalf of the Newton Schools Foundation (NSF). Growing up in Newton I know what “strong community” means. I was surrounded by people who make a difference by supporting each other and following their passions in life. I believe the mission of the NSF mirrors this philosophy well because it provides extra support to students to follow their passions. The programs NSF supports add to the quality of education of all Newton’s students, both in the classroom and through extracurricular activities. I know I greatly benefited from the support NSF throughout my education in Newton and I would like to give back.

Training tip: Listen to your body. No matter what!

Qualified runner or charity bib?: Charity bib for the Newton Schools Foundation. For more information, check out Burke's fundraising page.

Bib number: 26922