ROSWELL, Ga. - Two months ago, just-graduated senior Ryan Jolley had never made a face mask. Sewing had never been a hobby of hers. Fast forward to now, and Jolley's "Rydye" business has raised over $4000 for Project Cure to help send medical supplies to first responders and medical workers in major cities.

The inspiring story out of American University's veteran member of the swim & dive team showcases the best of humanity during the COVID-19 crisis. Jolley and her family, sheltering in place together in Roswell, Ga., have already made over 700 face masks available to anyone who wants one for $5 each.

"I started my own tie dye business, Rydye, a couple years ago, to sell custom shirts and socks," said Jolley. Little did she know the role her business would take on during a time of crisis. "I wanted to encourage people around me to start wearing masks and stay safe during the pandemic. At the same time, I wanted to contribute to relief efforts."

Jolley's parents and her younger sister, Heather, are all part of the effort. The work being done by Project Cure feels tangible to Jolley, with the organization sending medical supply boxes with masks and PPEs to those who need it most. Only $25 sponsors a supply box, and $500 sponsors an entire pallet. 

On her own, Jolley also donated to Crisis Aid International on Giving Tuesday to support COVID-19 relief efforts around the world. 

While some have donated extra cash for Jolley's supplies and shipping, most of that is coming out of her pocket as she donates 100 percent of the proceeds to Project Cure. While Jolley and so many others are experiencing the disappointment of senior years ending during quarantine, she says it's been a great distraction to have a project and do something special for the community.

It may seem like a full-time undertaking, but Jolley has plenty of those. In addition to taking her last undergraduate finals at AU, she is a teleworking full-time intern for the State Department.

Although her athletic eligibility is exhausted, she's not done with AU just yet. Jolley will return to continue pursuing her master's degree in justice, law and criminology in the School of Public Affairs after graduating with her bachelor's in communications, legal institutions, economics and government (CLEG).