Penn State Thon raises more than $11 million to help fight pediatric cancer

Penn State’s IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon came to a close Sunday with the announcement that the largest student-run philanthropy in the world topped $11 million in donations for its 2020 event.

The $11,696,942 total — $1.075 million more than last year’s total — goes toward funding pediatric cancer research and covering the medical expenses of patients being treated at the Penn State Children’s Hospital through the Four Diamonds Fund.

Starting Friday, thousands of Penn State students gathered in the Bryce Jordan Center to see the dancers, Penn State organizations and Thon families. The weekend featured a fashion show for the Thon kids, a dance competition for the Penn State athletic teams, and performances by Penn State groups like the Singing Lions and Whiplash.

There were more 700 dancers this year, who spent the entire 46 hours without sitting or sleeping.

There were surprise performances by pop artist Daya Friday night and electronic group Cash Cash Saturday night. Pop group Go Go Gadjet, a staple at Thon for a decade until missing last year’s event, made a return Sunday to close out Thon 2020.

Maddie Hughes, a former Thon public relations director, said there were various elements incorporated throughout the weekend to make the experience as exciting and engaging for everyone involved as possible, like the surprise performances and upbeat music.

“Each year, they work to make it more engaging for the crowds and the people on the floor,” Hughes said. “Overall, it’s just been an incredible weekend.”

Thon has helped over 4,000 families in their battles with pediatric cancer. It has raised over $168 million since its inception in 1973.

Last year, Thon raised $10,621,683. Donations throughout the Thon 2020 season were received through www.thon.donordrive.com.

Alpha Tau Omega and Zeta Tau Alpha once again led Greek organizations in fundraising, with $291,081. Teaming up this year, current Nittany Lion mascot Zachary Sowa and Beaver Stadium mic man Eric Gaspich raised more than any other independent dancer couple — $48,725.

The record year for donations was 2014, when students raised $13,343,517.

This story was originally published February 23, 2020 at 4:19 PM.