What would you do with $17,737,040.93? 

At Penn State the answer is simple, they would give it back to people that need it most, children battling cancer. Every year, THON brings together the Penn State community together for the best 48 hours of dancing, advocating, and fundraising, all in the name of supporting these “lionhearted” kids and families. The event not only raises awareness but consistently surpasses the fundraising goals, with each year achieving even greater success than the last. In 2024, the Penn State community came together and raised $16,955,683.63, directly supporting treatments, recovery, and essential life needs. Since its kickoff in 1973, THON has become a loved tradition at Penn State, and this year’s 52nd event continues to inspire hope and make a difference in the lives of those affected by childhood cancer. 

THON isn’t just a fundraising event, it is a unique tradition that brings the Penn State community together. For many students, participating in THON during their four years at the university becomes a defining experience. The connection is so strong that the alumni continue to return even after graduation. 2018 PSU graduate Alex Lilly is a prime example of this. Lilly has been attending THON for 12 years now, and has the privilege of spending each THON weekend with a 23 year cancer survivor. Her THON family has taken her in like their own and they continue to make THON weekends full of love and fun. Each year, THON is an event she eagerly anticipates, and she can’t wait to break another record next year! 

At Penn State, THON is a cause that resonates deeply with students, especially those that are athletes, their participation isn’t just a requirement, it is a true passion. Haley Rodrigue, a 2021 PSU graduate and a four year Lionette, Rodrigue’s  involvement went above and beyond the average student. As chairman of the Lionette Team for THON, Rodrigue had the privilege of playing an instrumental role in planning and fundraising for this on behalf of the PSU Lionettes Dance Team. Her position allowed her and the other 29 Lionettes to get extremely close to the Four Diamond Families and make some of the best memories while at PSU. Alongside THON weekend, PSU athletes were able to participate in many unique events related to THON like THON Hoops, the THON 5k, and more. These opportunities not only helped raise funds but also foster deep personal connections between athletes and their families they support. For these athletes THON is so much more than just a few events throughout the year. It is a year-long commitment that cultivates camaraderie between teammates, strengthens bonds between Four Diamond Families, and leaves a long lasting impact on everyone involved. Rodrigue’s experiences is just one example of how PSU athletes create a culture of giving, empathy, and life long connections through the unwavering dedication to THON. 

Many people are deeply affected by childhood cancer in one way or another, and many students have been able to continue their advocacy after high school graduation at PSU. Emilee Schumaker, a current sophomore at PSU, is a prime example. For years she has been extremely involved in childhood cancer advocacy, attending events and working towards raising awareness. One of the most meaningful experiences for Schumaker was her participation in Curefest, an annual event held in Washington D.C.  held by the Arms Wide Open Foundation. Curefest brings together a tight-knit community focused on supporting those affected by childhood cancer. After reflecting on her years attending Curefest Schumaker observed that this event was primarily catered to dancers from the DMV area. While it was powerful, Curefest felt smaller in scale in comparison to PSU’s iconic THON. After attending THON for the first time, Schumakers perspective shifted dramatically. She saw firsthand the immense power of collective action and the deep emotion that such a large-scale event can have on both participants and the community. While THON is larger than Curefest, Schumacher now understands that no matter the size of the event, the connections made and the awareness that is raised is what truly matters. Since Schumaker has first attended THON, she has immersed herself into unforgettable weekends of laughter, tears, dancing, and unwavering support. She has created lasting memories and strengthened her commitment to the cause. Her experiences of both Curefest and THON have proudly shaped her, reminding her of the powerful change that can happen when communities come together with purpose. 

As THON continues to grow and evolve, its impact on both the PSU community and the families it supports remains unwavering. It is more than just an event, it is a symbol of hope, unity, resilience, and the incredible strength of individuals united by a shared purpose. For students like Alex Lilly, Haley Rodrigue, and Emilee Schumaker, THON is not just an experience, it is a lifelong commitment to making a difference. Each year, Penn State comes together to push boundaries, break records, and more importantly show the world that when you come together great change can be made. THON serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how big or small the contribution, every effort counts in the fight against childhood cancer, and the love and support felt in those 48 hours continue to resonate long after the final dance.