For five years, Consulting associates around the world have hit the ground running in support of their favorite causes through the Move Forward 5K Charity Event. Each year, during the month of January, participants complete a variety of 30-minute exercises to get a healthy start to the new year and raise money for charity.
In 2025, 108 associates joined the movement, raising funds for 66 nonprofit organizations. We caught up with this year’s winners to learn more about the causes they championed and how embracing an active lifestyle supports them professionally and personally.
Stuart Hunt, Director, NA (US)
This year, I supported 261 Fearless. Co-founded by Kathrine Switzer, the first woman to officially complete the Boston Marathon, the organization offers education and running opportunities for women to discover their self-worth and potential and take charge of their lives.
I haven’t always been a runner, but I discovered I enjoy how running allows me to unplug and focus on a single goal. When I used to travel a lot for work, running was also a great way for me to explore the cities I visited. In addition to running, I also enjoy playing tennis to exercise and spend time with friends. I was excited to join the Move Forward 5K, as I had never been part of a professional community like this before and appreciated how it made Gartner Consulting feel a little smaller by connecting associates across the business.
An active lifestyle is important to me because it helps keep me healthy, both physically and mentally. Now with two young children, it can be challenging to find time to exercise, but it’s something I work to prioritize whenever and however I can.
Alex Stoops, Consultant, NA (US)
I chose to support the Human Rights Campaign. For me, running has always been about pushing boundaries and striving for better. Donating to HRC felt like a meaningful way to extend the impact of this challenge beyond myself and contribute to an important cause.
I’ve been an active runner since high school, and what started as a way to stay fit quickly became much more. Running is my time to reset, to challenge myself, and to find clarity. I love that it’s both simple and deeply personal – just me, my thoughts, and the road ahead. It’s also a great reminder that progress comes with consistency and effort, which is a mindset I try to embrace in other aspects of my life.
An active lifestyle gives me the energy and mental clarity to take on challenges, both in my personal life and at work. Running helps me manage stress, stay focused, and approach problems with a fresh perspective. Professionally, it reinforces discipline and resilience – two qualities that are just as important in the workplace as they are in training. Plus, I find that some of my best ideas come to me during a run!
Izumi Akiike, Associate Director, APAC (Japan)
Through the Move Forward 5K, I supported The Ocean Cleanup and Doctors Without Borders Japan, two causes I believe are crucial for us and for future generations. I got into running and walking initially for health reasons. Incorporating regular exercise into my routine improved both my physical and mental wellbeing.
Prioritizing an active lifestyle has also enriched my personal and professional life. Through running and walking, I’ve made meaningful connections both in and outside of work. I also enjoy getting to explore new places and take in the sights while I exercise.
Neville Horn, Director, NA (Canada)
I ran in support of the Terry Fox Foundation, an organization dedicated to raising money for cancer research.
My running journey began in 2014 when I joined Gartner, which motivated me to push my limits and realize my full potential. After training to complete some half and full marathons, I set my sights on qualifying for the Boston Marathon, which I did in 2019. One of my colleagues, a seasoned Boston Marathoner, helped me navigate this daunting experience and introduced me to other runners and race winners. Exercise has taught me the power of perseverance. Despite setbacks and injuries, I’ve completed the Boston Marathon four times and run other major races with more on the horizon.
A winning mindset and commitment to doing the right thing have supported my success in running as well as in my Consulting career. I believe everyone should have their own “Boson Marathon,” whether it be running, golfing, crafting, volunteering – anything that nurtures self-confidence and can inspire others.
Christine Wilson, Sr Director, NA (US)
I supported the Meridian Symphony Orchestra, which is a 70-member volunteer orchestra of talented musicians from the Treasure Valley in Idaho. There is nothing like live theater and music to fill the soul and remind us that great things are possible, one note at a time.
The 2025 Move Forward 5K was my first time Nordic skiing. I moved from Los Angeles to Idaho a few years ago, where beaches are few, but snow is plentiful. Snow and I aren’t exactly friends, but we are getting better acquainted. I have found cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking to provide beautiful views, quiet solitude, and a great workout.
Exercise helps me find balance. The more I move, the more balanced life is. Even when life and work are very hectic, everything is better when I get a move on!