College of Health and Human Development students serve in various THON leadership roles

Penn State THON is a student-run philanthropy committed to enhancing the lives of children and families impacted by childhood cancer. Over 16,500 student volunteers come together to spread awareness and raise funds for childhood cancer—all in pursuit of a cure.

Each year, THON’s fundraising efforts culminate in a 46-hour, no-sitting, no-sleeping dance marathon, with ninety-six cents of every dollar raised going directly to Four Diamonds at the Penn State Health Children’s Hospital.

Planning this large philanthropic effort is a year-round process, and managing the event in lead up to, at, and post THON requires significant time commitment from student leaders across the University. Regardless of the workload atop their regular studies, Penn State students commit their time and talents in support of a cure for childhood cancer.

This year, five students in Penn State College of Health and Human Development programs are serving in leadership positions and committees for THON 2025. Following are insights from these students as they gear up for THON Weekend 2025, which will take place Feb. 21-23.

In her current role, Stone leads a committee of 25 captains focusing on supporting every family member throughout, and beyond, their cancer journey. In the year leading up to THON 2025, she has developed resources and shared information about events and the various ways family members can connect with the THON community. By developing relationships and keeping in touch with THON families, she tailors their THON experiences to suit their needs and ensures they receive the support they need.

“Serving as family relations director has been the most impactful and moving experience of my life,” Stone said. “Each of our families displays incredible bravery, resilience, hope and dedication, and to support them in such a tangible way is a gift. Forming genuine connections with our families has changed my life for the better and has taught me lessons that I will continue to carry with me.”

During THON weekend, her responsibilities include planning and hosting the Donor and Alumni Relations Reception, which celebrates high-level corporate and individual donors. She is also responsible for donor suites, alumni and donor tours of the Bryce Jordan Center (BJC), and distribution of 12,000 white shirts attendees in the entire BJC wear during the pep rally.

“I love the opportunity to connect with alumni all over the country, hear their ‘Why I THON’ stories and see first-hand their passion in the fight against childhood cancer,” Donahoe said. “I get to work alongside the most passionate, hardworking 16 individuals on the executive committee who put their entire heart into their roles day in and day out. Getting to selflessly serve our amazing families and create magical moments is a privilege and the highlight of my Penn State career.”

Leading up to THON Weekend, the committee holds regular meetings to establish a working relationship and plans every detail to provide the safest, most enjoyable weekend for all THON volunteers, dancers and spectators.

During THON weekend, Royer serves as the primary liaison between the dancers and the rest of the executive committee. She also works closely with EMS to ensure the dancers are safe and well taken care of. She and her captains are responsible for creating the THON line dance, which is performed every hour throughout the weekend to help dancers and spectators stretch.

Royer said this role is even more meaningful and impactful for her as it relates to her studies in Health Policy and Administration.

“No family should worry about affordable and adequate access to health care when going through such a challenging time,” Royer said. “Our student volunteers are so driven and dedicate countless hours to ensure THON children and families feel supported, loved and seen during the most challenging period of their lives. I’ve met the most inspiring families and selfless Penn State students who push me daily to be the best version of myself.”

Kerner encourages his captains to bring as much creativity and innovation to each event as possible and works with them, other THON committees and professional contacts to make their creative vision for each event come to life.

He said seeing the countless hours of care, passion and love his captains pour into their roles manifest into incredible moments for so many families and volunteers has been incredibly meaningful to him.

“To have the opportunity to serve THON in any capacity has been the highlight of my Penn State experience,” Kerner said. “Every time we read a family’s story during our weekly meetings or get to hear from a family speaker at one of our pre-THON Weekend events, I am always so humbled, grounded and amazed at what an incredible impact a group of undergraduate students can have.”