Phil Isaacson isn't the fastest runner, but the Siena Fresh employee has captured the Lifesong Dash 5K trophy four years in a row. His secret? He recruits ringers from work.
Everyone knows Isaacson. The affable and always hard worker at Lonnstrom Dining Hall has been a member of the Siena community for 10 years.
"I love working here," said Isaacson. "I love being with the students and the faculty. I love to see them happy."
Over the summer, when he's not with his Siena community, Isaacson spends a couple days a week with his LifeSong community. The Clifton Park organization supports adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the community through day habilitation and employment services. Each June, the nonprofit raises donations through a charity 5K run. Each spring, Isaacson starts building his team of Division I athletes.
"I see them in the dining hall, and in March, I start to ask them to be on my team."
Everyone is quick to say "yes" to Isaacson, and over the past four years, he's developed a dynasty. Student athletes from cross country and track, lacrosse, and basketball have all run with – and won for – Isaacson. This year, an inch and a half of rain fell during the race, but team Elite Track Alliance, which also included friends from LifeSong, prevailed – earning Phil (above, middle with the trophy) his fourth straight victory (below, the 2024 winning team).
“Phil’s energy and enthusiasm in supporting the LifeSong Dash 5K are unmatched," said Darren Barkman, clinical services manager for LifeSong. "Over the past twelve years, the Dash has been primarily built on relationships – most of our runners join us year after year. Our connection with the Siena runners, in particular, is very special and we so appreciate their eagerness to support Phil and our agency!”
Saints have raised meaningful dollars in support of the organization's mission over the years. Isaacson's proud of that, but if he's being honest, he's most proud of the...
"Trophy. I'm really happy to get that trophy. It shows that we're dedicated. We want to win."
It's that competitive spirit – and shared values – that forever bonds Isaacson with his Siena family.