Logan Maurer

Logan Maurer

Hometown: Park Ridge, Illinois

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Year: Freshman

BIOGRAPHY

Hello! My name is Logan Maurer, and I am a freshman studying mechanical engineering at UIUC. Outside of the Illini 4000 team, I am a member of the Inline Insomniacs, Illini Cycling, and Eco Illini Supermileage car team. My hobbies include playing the tuba, fixing/building bikes, and working with computers. I love everything about cycling and I hope to eventually work in the industry as an engineer.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

I joined the Illini 4000 team because it was a way for me to combine my passion for cycling with my passion for helping others. As a result, I can create a real impact by sharing the stories of those effected by cancer, and raising money to support those in need. I dedicate my ride to all of the researchers and medical personnel who work to find safer and more effective methods for prevention, detection, and treatment of cancer.

Izzy Perpich

Izzy Perpich

Hometown: Chicago

Major: Speech and Hearing Science

Year: Junior

BIOGRAPHY

Hi! My name is Izzy and I am a Junior studying Speech and Hearing Science. I am from Chicago, IL. I enjoy hiking, exploring nature, going to concerts, playing hockey, riding the train, and cycling! I am passionate about accessible healthcare, sustainability, and queer love. I am stoked to be a part of the 2024 Bike America team!

PERSONAL STATEMENT

In my studies of the American healthcare system at the University, I have learned that voices too often are silenced. Many people experience a lack of adequate, accessible care due to socioeconomic status, discrimination, a lack of resources, and other inequitable factors. Undoubtedly, health disparities exist. I believe that with the time that we have, it is necessary to amplify voices. I hope to make a positive impact on those who experience the hardships of cancer by uplifting voices through the Portraits Project.

Anthony Dirico

Anthony Dirico

Hometown: Chicago

Year: Senior

Major: Civil Engineering

BIOGRAPHY

Hey! My name is Anthony Dirico. I am currently a senior majoring in Civil Engineering. I love being in the mountains, rock climbing in the summertime, and snowboarding in the winter. At Illinois, I am on the boxing team where my team and I competed in nationals and took home the belt! I have a passion for traveling and am so excited to explore the country and make an impact on cancer research and awareness.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

I want to do this trip to make a positive impact on people who have been affected by cancer. The programs that Illini 4000 are partnered with directly help families that have previously fought or are in an ongoing battle with cancer. My aunt passed away from cancer and I saw firsthand how painful this experience was for her kids, her siblings, and everyone in my family. I want to support a community that overcomes new challenges every day and help them keep pushing forward.

Neal Linden

Neal Linden

Hometown: Mendota, IL

Major: Aerospace Engineering

Year: Freshman

BIOGRAPHY

Hey, my name is Neal Linden, and I am a freshman studying aerospace engineering. As well as the Illini 4k I am in the marching Illini. In my free time I love to play sax and just live life.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

I didn't know what the Illini 4k was when I applied for this, all I knew was that I was supposed to ride a bike across the country to support people fighting cancer. But it is so much more than that, the fundraising is a big part, but I think the portraits project might make the most impact. I want everyone to be able to tell their story so that nobody thinks they are alone in a fight with cancer.

Joseph Shepin

Joseph Shepin

Hometown: Long Grove, IL

Major: Computer Science

Year: Sophomore

BIOGRAPHY

Hi my name is Joseph, I'm currently a Sophomore studying computer science at UIUC. When I'm not busy studying, I enjoy working out, playing the viola, and skating with my friends. My favorite physical activities include cycling, weightlifting, street skating, running, and swimming. I'm excited to be a part of the Illini 4k to support this great cause!

PERSONAL STATEMENT

I'm excited to be doing the Illini 4k for my friends and family who struggle with cancer, mental health, and other life-altering injuries. The Illini4k is more than a cycling trip, it's a symbol of the strength and resiliency of people and I look forward to taking this message across the entire country this summer. I hope the trip will be a positive inspiration for myself, those around me, and everyone we meet along the way.

Riddhima Patllollu

Riddhima Patllollu

Hometown: Ridgewood, NJ

Major: Information Sciences

Year: Freshman

BIOGRAPHY

Hi, my name is Riddhima and I'm a freshman studying Information Sciences! I love the freedom of road cycling and am a huge supporter of better bicycle infrastructure everywhere. I enjoy listening to music (Elliott Smith, Kara Jackson, NCT, Sufjan Stevens, and more) reading, journaling, and watching video essays in my free time. I'm also a part of Illinois Design Consulting, the Daily Illini, and Psi Eta Mu!

PERSONAL STATEMENT

As an Information Sciences major, I believe that documenting our experiences is an essential part of life. The Illini 4000's Portraits Project brings that concept to fruition, and I look forward to contributing to it over the course of the ride. I hope to memorialize the stories of those who have been affected by cancer and raise awareness for their experiences.

Maaike Niekerk

Maaike Niekerk

Hometown: Champaign, IL

Major: English

Year: Sophomore

BIOGRAPHY

Hello! I'm Maaike Niekerk, and I'm a sophomore majoring in English with minors in journalism and music. I'm from Champaign, and always enjoy writing, long distance running, and playing in any and every musical ensemble.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

After seeing so many loved ones impacted by cancer up close, it was never a question that I wanted to dedicate some part of my life to help fight the disease. I have constantly been in pursuit of bringing love to the people around me, and taking this opportunity to hear so many stories across the country is a perfect chance for me to do that. I4K combines many aspects of my life by taking my love of being out in nature and putting it together with something that has impacted me personally. I am excited to ride for my family and those I love who have been affected by this in order to make something beautiful out of it.

Michael Bian

Michael Bian

Hometown: Buffalo Grove, IL

Major: Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology

Year: Senior

School: Emory University

BIOGRAPHY

Hey, my name is Michael Bian! I’m a senior at Emory University majoring in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology and minoring in Ethics on the pre-med track. During my time at Emory, I've played club soccer, completed a triathlon, hiked parts of the Appalachian Trail, kayaked in the Everglades, and cycled 100 miles across Georgia. Next summer, I embark on my next big adventure: I will cycle 4000 miles across the US with the Illini 4000 to raise funds for cancer research. My hobbies are very personal to me; they offer a sanctuary where I can think thoughts that are completely and utterly my own. My pursuits are scalable and progressive, and the people and places I encounter allow me to better comprehend my role within my community by enriching my understanding of self and others. In my future medical practice, I am driven to integrate these principles and embrace the power of the human connection to provide compassionate care for all my patients.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

In high school, a family friend passed from pediatric brain cancer. Her diagnosis was devastating, but the months of uncertainty leading up to it were even more so. We knew something was wrong, but the limitations of MRI technology prevented us from acting until it was too late. As I processed her loss, I wanted to use my pain to inspire progress. When I learned about the potential of machine learning algorithms to identify previously unnoticed cancer growths, I set a goal to use deep learning to make MRI interpretation of brain tumors more accurate. In college, I completed an independently funded MRI brain research project in the Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at Emory University/Georgia Tech. Through hands-on data analysis, I developed my understanding of the theories and technical aspects of machine learning. After using deep learning in a research setting, I explored the dynamic synergy between academia and industry, which turned innovative concepts into real-world solutions within a remarkably short timespan. I saw a product of this pipeline when I observed a cutting-edge MRI-guided procedure to treat Parkinson's disease. As the patient's tremors ceased before my eyes, I decided as a future physician-scientist, I would dedicate my life to developing precision guided treatments of brain diseases. These experiences were all made possible because of the generosity of those who funded my research. Participating in I4K serves as a profound full-circle moment, an opportunity to use my love of cycling to give back to the institutions that have supported my work. My journey from personal tragedy to scientific innovation and fundraising illustrates the potential for individuals to transform their grief into a force for positive change. In honor of my friend, I will reshape possibilities in brain cancer care, offering hope and healing to those who need it most.

Olaf Schwink

Olaf Schwink

Hometown: Longview, IL

Major: Middle Grades Education (Science, Literacy, Art)

Year: Junior

BIOGRAPHY

Hello! My name is Olaf Schwink and I'm a junior majoring in Middle Grades Education with concentrations in Science and Literacy and a minor in Art and Design. In addition to Illini 4000, I am part of the Inline Insomniacs club. Lately, I've been enjoying exploring ways to be physically active as well as develop my skills as an artist and a future educator. My favorite activities include dancing and skating with my friends.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

Every year, around two million individuals are diagnosed with cancer and over half a million individuals die from it in the United States. When I was young, my mother was diagnosed with and survived thyroid cancer. I'm lucky to still have my mother, but many aren't so lucky. I'm taking part in this life-changing ride in order to help folks who are going through hardship by sharing stories that they can relate to.

Dylan Hendrixson

Dylan Hendrixson

Hometown: Oak Park, IL

Major: Chemical Engineering

Year: Senior

BIOGRAPHY

Hey everyone! My name is Dylan Hendrixson I'm a senior in chemical engineering at the University of Illinois. After I graduate, I plan on pursuing a PhD in biomedical engineering studying cultivated meat. Outside of school I enjoy running, lifting, bouldering, listening to music, and reading.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

Biking across the country to raise funds for cancer research will be a deeply rewarding and purposeful experience. Combining my love for cycling with my commitment to the fight against cancer, I will embark on this journey with a heart full of hope. Pedaling through diverse landscapes and connecting with inspiring individuals affected by cancer, I will witness the strength of the human spirit and the power of collective action. Together, we will make a difference, raising vital funds, and contributing to the ongoing battle against this devastating disease. This ride will be a testament to the belief that by coming together, we can create a future where cancer is no longer a threat.

Kavin Prashaad

Kavin Prashaad

Hometown: Carol Stream, IL

Major: Philosophy

Year: Sophomore

BIOGRAPHY

Hey, I'm Kavin and I'm a pretty outdoorsy guy. I spend most of my summers running and biking and thought the school year, I also have been competing in cross country and track for over six years now. Fun fact: I have ran more miles in my life than the amount needed to circumnavigate the moon 🤯 (probably). I'm also in the air national guard and have been serving for over 2 years now.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

I'm doing this because it's a great opportunity for me to be able to meet people in probably the craziest way I'll ever have the opportunity too. Also being able to help and talk to folks who have cancer or know someone who does through the bike trip and through my fundraising is something I'm really passionate about

Tommy Gulumian

Tommy Gulumian

Hometown: Hanover Park, IL

Major: History with a minor in Secondary Education

Year: Junior

BIOGRAPHY

Hello there! My name is Tommy, I'm currently a Junior in the college of LAS studying History and Secondary Education (Interested in teaching Social Studies at a high school level!) In my free time you can find me playing video games, reading, or biking. Clocking a slightly-absurd amount of time on the Illinois Prairie Path and the Great Western Trail, I look forward to seeing what's to offer past the Midwest. Far beyond the mileage and sights of this trip is my excitement to have the impact I can in raising funds and awareness in the fight against cancer, an opportunity I am grateful to share with my team as a proud member of the 2024 Illini 4000 team!

PERSONAL STATEMENT

Growing up with too much time on my hands, I would spend days out on nearby bike trails, going as far as I could (from literal town to town) looking to see where I could end up. Without a real dedicated front, I would only be motivated by new paths, new routes I had not gone down. After the first information meeting for the Illini 4000, I realized I had not really left my backyard - farther than ever before, I was moved by the meaningful impact I can have as a part of the team. As a member of Illini 4000, working on the ever-growing Portraits Project, I can make great distances in helping others while pursuing what makes me happy. I am riding for those who are riding with me, and for those coming together for the betterment of the world. I am privileged to be able to utilize my hobbies in a way that helps those in need, and I look forward to growing alongside this community and my teammates.

Claudia Madsen

Claudia Madsen

Hometown: Mt. Prospect, IL

Major: History

Year: Junior

BIOGRAPHY

Hi! My name is Claudia, and I am a junior majoring in History with a minor in Secondary Education. Around campus, I am involved in Vocal Jazz, Latin American Ensemble, Potted Meat Sketch Comedy, and I am the president of Crossword Club! I am normally a runner, not a cyclist, but I am super excited to trade in my running shoes for wheels this summer!

PERSONAL STATEMENT

I am dedicating my ride to all those fighting cancer without a support system at home. I hope that Illini 4000 can, at least in some small way, offer a sense of community and support to the people who need it most. I am so honored to be involved in this mission and so proud of our team!

Emma Darbro

Emma Darbro

Hometown: Plainfield, IL

Major: Brain and Cognitive Sciences

Year: Junior

BIOGRAPHY

Hi, y’all! I’m Emma, a junior in Brain and Cognitive Sciences with a minor in Public Health on the pre-medicine track. Outside of my studies, my campus jobs allow me to engage in my passions of advancing gender equity and healthcare accessibility, while working alongside some of the best Illini! I am a First-Year Consent and Relationship Education (FYCARE) facilitator at the Women’s Resources Center, a peer health educator at McKinley Health Center, and received my Certified Nursing Assistant certificate from Parkland College last summer. I also work with the School of Social Work on a maternal mental health research study where I help recruit families to participate! I love being outside, which led me to run two Chicago Marathons, and I am excited to bike over 170 marathons this summer with my amazing teammates:) When I’m not behind a laptop, you can find me searching for the best coffee on campus, enjoying Nerd clusters, and meandering around Costco. Cheers to a great summer!

PERSONAL STATEMENT

Throughout the years, I adopted the tradition of dedicating each mile in the marathons I have completed to people in my life who I could not have finished the race without. The first mile was always for my grandma, and the last mile was always for my grandpa, who passed away from cancer when I was in high school. One of the last, and most influential things, my grandpa told me was how important it was to him for me to feel empowered to chase ~my~ passions, regardless of how challenging they seemed. The Illini 4000 is an impeccable feat of humanity, aiming to advance cancer research, support those impacted by the disease, document their experiences, and is a journey that would not be possible without the generosity of those who believe in the power of young people with big dreams, bigger hearts, and 21 bikes. And while I don’t think my grandpa expected me to bike across the country when he gave me that advice 5 years ago, I think this is exactly what he would have wanted…his granddaughter having over 4,000 miles of biking to complete, and the opportunity to dedicate those miles to 4,000 other people who continue to fight cancer!

Jack Hutchens

Jack Hutchens

Hometown: Carlsbad, California

Major: Engineering Undeclared

Year: Freshman

BIOGRAPHY

Hi everyone! I’m Jack, a freshman in Engineering Undeclared from Carlsbad CA. Life in Illinois has been a bit of a culture shock; it's definitely been an out with mountain biking, in with “urban freeriding” kind of transition if you know what I mean. Although doing jumps off the Krannert staircase is a lot of fun, I’ve grown to appreciate the finer things in life such as wakeboarding, Wednesday night Joes, and weekend OAC Trips. Work hard, party hard, live hard.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

Virtually everyone alive today will at some point in their lives be directly or indirectly affected by cancer in one form or another. I’m no exception, you almost certainly aren’t either. Other charities and organizations largely fill the hole needed for standard and palliative care, however, cancer research remains consistently underfunded with many groups investigating novel treatment vectors finding themselves struggling to secure the finances necessary to continue doing their work. The Illini 4000 is one of the rare organizations that earmarks a significant portion of funds raised to be directed towards funding projects that traditional public and private entities have deemed too risky to invest in. As someone who will be involved in adjacent research in the coming months, I cannot understate the importance of funding this type of research. Beyond just raising money, I can’t think of a more awesome publicity stunt than me and 20 of my newest best friends riding bikes some 5000 miles across the country to contribute to the war on cancer.

Kevin Murphy

Kevin Murphy

Hometown: La Grange, IL

Major: History and Political Science with a minor in Secondary Education

Year: Junior

BIOGRAPHY

Hi! My name is Kevin Murphy and I am a junior studying History and Political Science with a minor in Secondary Education. Outside of Illini 4000, I am involved in various other student organizations including being President of the University YMCA Student Board and Vice President of Amnesty International. I enjoy biking, rock climbing, listening to music, and talking a lot about plants. I am super excited to get to see the country from a different perspective this summer!

PERSONAL STATEMENT

I am doing this ride for my family and loved ones who have been affected by cancer. Specifically, my Dad, my Grandma (Nana), my Aunts (Colleen and Bianca), my late Uncle Luke, and many of my extended family. Cancer affects millions across the globe yearly and I am very thankful for the opportunity of Illini 4000 to help me make a difference in the fight. “May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face. And rains fall soft upon your fields.” -Irish Blessing